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Sean Óg Ó hAilpín: back in the mix. INPHO/Cathal Noonan
New Tricks

Centre of attention: JBM gives Sean Óg his chance in Cork midfield

The Rebels face Waterford on the first weekend of the Allianz National Hurling League at Páirc Uí Rinn.

JIMMY BARRY MURPHY has handed Sean Óg Ó hAilpín a role in the Cork midfield this weekend.

The Rebels face Waterford on the first weekend of the Allianz National Hurling League at 7pm in Páirc Uí Rinn.

And the former All-Star will partner Darren Sweetnam in a new-look partnership in the Cork midfield.

The Na Piarsaigh’s man was brought back into the Leesiders’ set-up by Jimmy Barry-Murphy, having been dropped in the final year of Denis Walsh’s tenure.

Ó hAilpín has made his name during a glittering career, in the No 7 jersey, winning three Celtic Crosses and as many All Star awards while in defence. But he will now move into midfield alongside the Dohenys man, who makes his first league start.

“I did say to him that we didn’t bring him back to babysit young players or to mind them – he’s a player himself,” the Barry-Murphy  - who won an All-Ireland in his first time as Cork manager – said earlier this week.

Cork team (to face Waterford): D Óg Cusack, B Murphy, S McDonnell, S O’Neill; J Gardiner, R Cashman, W Egan; S Óg Ó hAilpín, D Sweetnam; C Lehane, P Cronin; C Naughton; P Horgan, P O’Sullivan, B O’Connor.

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