Westmeath star John Heslin says he was in “a very privileged position” to return for his county in this afternoon’s Leinster senior football championship final win over Dublin.

After having retired from the inter-county game in early 2025, the 33-year-old made a sensational return to the Lake men’s panel recently, with ace attacker Luke Loughlin being ruled out for the season after the Grade 4 hamstring tear he suffered against Meath last month.

Having been named in Mark McHugh’s matchday squad for the weekend, Heslin was introduced with 10 minutes remaining in normal time against the Dubs and would contribute three points, including a two-pointer in extra time, as Westmeath emerged victorious by 2-28 to 0-26 at Croke Park to claim their second ever Delaney Cup success.

Speaking to RTE Sport afterwards, the St Loman’s clubman said that he was delighted for the group.

 "I was fortunate, and we had a lot of unfortunate lads that got injured. I'm thinking of Luke Loughlin and Johnny Lynham, who had big injuries. And if they didn't get injured, I wouldn't be here today. That's the reality," Heslin stated.

"I'm just in a very privileged position. The county asked me would I come back in, and can I give whatever that may be today, whether that be just chat to the lads and get them going or play on the pitch. That was what I did today, and I'm just delighted."

He added: "I fully believe those lads would've won it if I wasn't there today as well. Of course they would've. That's why I came in, because I was just there to support them. I was asked to come on for a few minutes today and did that. But they're a super bunch of players. Fast, great, dedicated lads - and I'm delighted for them."

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