In the latest episode of the RTÉ GAA Podcast, Cathal Mullaney and Rory O'Neill are joined by Ciarán Whelan to chat all things league football, while Neil McManus weighs in on the hurling action.
Whelan gives his thoughts on Dublin's loss to Mayo adding that he feels older players need to step up, he also comments that the Dubs have been fielding the least experienced team so far and highlights the midfield as a possible issue for Ger Brennan that may need to be resolved before championship season.
Whelan also feels that Kerry's decision to sit deep in Ballyshannon was part of their downfall against Donegal and highlights Seán O’Shea's contribution that dragged Kerry back into it. He also noted that the Tir Chonaill County are operating with more of their big hitters than Kerry.
Kieran McGeeney’s comments about the lack of communication between referees and management following the controversial three-man breach decision in the first half of Armagh's defeat to Galway are discussed by the group with Whelan stating he felt the call was incorrectly made and urges for a common-sense approach going forward.
Finally, the Raheny clubman makes a big prediction that the Leinster championship will be full revived in 2026 off the back of strong performances in the league so far from Meath.
Antrim hurling legend McManus joins for part two, and the panel kick off by talking about Waterford’s bounce-back performance against Limerick.
McManus reflects on Waterford’s intensity and highlights several concerns for Limerick.
A question from a listener, asking if Wexford are now a Joe McDonagh standard team having been run so close by both Down and Antrim, is answered.
McManus also chats about the challenge for smaller panels when losing players to injury and illness at this time of year.
Watch Cork v Tipperary in the Allianz Hurling League on Saturday from 7pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Follow a live blog on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport. Listen to Saturday Sport on RTÉ Radio 1.
