SHOULDER TO THE WHEEL

Initially ruled out for the year, Banner star O'Donnell could be back by the end of May

- BY KARL O'KANE

HURLER of the Year Shane O'Donnell is "so excited" to get back hurling and could yet play a pivotal role for All-Ireland champions Clare this summer.

O'Donnell, who underwent shoulder surgery in early Febru-ary, returned to low-paced running last week and is able to do gym work again.

The double All-Ireland winner and two-time league champion has no specific date for a return to action, saying it could be anywhere between four and eight weeks, but that alone is great news for Banner fans.

Clare open their Champion-ship campaign at Cusack Park on Sunday, facing Cork in a repeat of last year's All-Ireland final, which they won after extra-time.

O'Donnell, who turns 31 in June, is certain to miss at least the first three rounds of Munster.

Clare face Waterford at Walsh Park in Round 2 on Sunday week, but don't play after that until May 10, at home to Tipperary.

O'Donnell could be available for the tough Round 5 trip to Limerick on May 25.

The Munster final is set for two weeks later and if Brian Lo-han's men make it, there's a chance O'Donnell could play some part.

The Éire Óg club man, who sustained a serious concussion in 2021 that threatened his fu-ture in the game, was initially ruled out for the season by Lohan (right).

But the three-time All Star is working hard in the background with a view to playing some role as Clare bid to defend the Liam MacCarthy Cup.