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Limerick set to lose more players
As the fallout continues following manager Justin McCarthy's decision to axe 12 players from the senior hurling squad, more big name retirements looks likely in the Treaty county.
McCarthy recently culled a dozen from his panel, among them recognisable names like Stephen Lucey, Donie Ryan, Mike O'Brien, Mark O'Riordan, Andrew O'Shaughnessy and Niall Moran. While the decision to show these players the door was controversial in itself, what rankles most is McCarthy's contention that it was taken on disciplinary grounds, because the players in question allegedly lacked commitment.
The manager recently met with what remains of his panel, after which star defender Damien Reale announced he would leave the squad, followed hard on the heels by James Ryan with standout wing back Mark Foley expected to do likewise. Others are reportedly considering their positions as well and the fear now is that the damn is bursting and Limerick could be forced to field a callow and inexperienced team next season.
"[...] this thing about citing a lack of discipline really cut me, " an unnamed player told the Sunday Independent. "Personally speaking, drinking is not on my agenda and never was. I have given my heart and soul to Limerick hurling and to hear that s*** come out about you. Yeah we had discipline problems in the past. But there were none last year."
The player added: "I wouldn't be surprised if three more players walk away now. I know that two are definitely out the door anyway and will follow Damien Reale."
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