Sheedy wants Shefflin to play final
August 25, 2010
Former Tipperary manager Liam Sheedy
Shefflin is a major doubt for the Croke Park decider in 11 days' time after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury during Kilkenny's semi-final win over Cork, but Sheedy believes it would be "good for hurling" if the championship's leading top-scorer were to line-out against his team.
"We've loads to focus on here in our own county. I guess, from a hurler's point of view, the All-Ireland final day really needs to see the best players," Sheedy told the Irish Independent.
"We had a similar scenario last year with Eoin (Kelly) coming up to the final - would he make it, would he not make it - and I think, when you get to the big stage, you want every player to be available. So, definitely, from our point of view, if Henry makes it, it's good for hurling.
"You've got to measure yourself against the best. Not that it makes a big impact, because there's huge strength in depth in their panel.
"On All-Ireland final day, the ideal scenario for both counties will be that everybody is available for selection.
"We've had our own misfortunes as well. James (Woodlock) and Pat (Kerwick) played a big part in the final last year and they haven't played any part at all this year. This year the strength of the pack is really what it comes down to. Thankfully, I think our panel has responded in the best possible way."
Kelly was given the all-clear to play against the Cats after it was revealed that the ace attacker suffered no ill effects from the back injury he picked up during gym training last week. Tweet
