James O'Brien has handed under fire Limerick hurling manager Justin McCarthy a major boost by returning to the county senior squad this week.

In a remarkable u-turn, O'Brien has made himself available to McCarthy again after being the first player to withdraw himself from the panel after the manager's decision to cut 12 players from the squad last October.

It was followed by 13 more players leaving the panel in a demonstration of solidarity.

"I suppose it was bound to happen," one of those who wished to remain nameless told the Irish Examiner.

"When we didn't all walk (from the panel) together, then something like this is always a possibility."

Meanwhile, a county board meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday night, March 9, where Limerick's opening two losses in Division One of the NHL are expected to be discussed. Tweet

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