O'Donnell: Frustrating campaign has led to Clare exits being put on hold

CHANGE OF HEART Clare star Shane O'Donnell had planned to hang up his hurl

- BY KARL O'KANE

SHANE O'Donnell says a number of Clare's All-Ireland winning veterans had intended for this to be their last season.

But, he reckons the way the Banner's defence of the Liam MacCarthy Cup ended - with a surprise Munster Championship exit - makes it very difficult for their older hands to hang up their boots.

2024 Hurler of the Year O'Donnell, whose season was blighted by a serious shoulder issue which required surgery, had intended to head to America for work with his girlfriend.

However, he says "the gloss" has been taken off America in recent months and that they may now look at Australia as an alternative down the line.

This could be good news for Clare hurling fans, but O'Donnell reckons that if one of their experienced cohort does decide to go, others may follow.

Tony Kelly is already on record as saying he would have to be scraped off the floor of the Clare dressing room rather than retire.

O'Donnell is a different character: "I think in your mind you're thinking, 'Do you know what, things like last year (All-Ireland win), we're at that level now," said the Éire Óg club man.