Heslin returns to Westmeath training

May 12, 2026

Westmeath's John Heslin during the 2022 Tailteann Cup final ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

John Heslin has made a sensational return to the Westmeath set-up ahead of Sunday's Leinster SFC final against Dublin.

The former talisman, who announced his inter-county retirement in January 2025 and will turn 34 next month, took part in a training session last weekend. Heslin is part of a training panel at present, but with Luke Loughlin ruled out for the rest of the season with a Grade 4 hamstring tear, his involvement has inevitably given rise to speculation that he could be part of the match-day squad come Sunday.

Heslin, who has been in excellent scoring form for his club St Loman's of late, was on punditry duty for GAA+ when Westmeath defeated Kildare after extra-time in the semi-final last Sunday week.

Rosemount's Andy McCormack has also returned to the training panel after a spell abroad.


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