Tipperary's hopes of progressing in the All-Ireland football qualifiers have been hit by the news that four of their key players have left the panel.

Under 21 stars Ciaran McDonald and Alan Moloney as well as Chris Aylward have opted to spend the rest of the summer in the US, while forward Sean Carey has decided to concentrate on hurling with the county under 21s.

It's a massive blow to Tipp's chances of beating either Meath or Laois on the weekend after next, but manager John Evans has refused to criticise the quartet for opting out.

"Sean Carey has had a long year with the seniors and he wants to have a shot with the under 21 hurlers," the Kerryman said.

"With Ciaran, Chris and Alan, I was talking to them and negotiating with them, but there's just no employment here.

"They're going to America with my blessing. They're young lads, strapped for cash and going to college. They need the money and their commitment has been second to none. If I could get them a job here I would, but I'm afraid I can't." Tweet

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