Clare joint manager Gerry O'Connor has revealed that the side has improved from last year.

Speaking to the Clare Champion, O'Connor stated that in 2017, the side were devoid of ideas on the field, but he is confident that has changed this year.

"The big difference between last year and this year is that the players are making all the decisions on the field," said O'Connor.

"Last year, we certainly spent a lot of time analysing the opposition, whereas this year we have spent more time analysing ourselves. We had to go away and have a long, hard look at how we prepared the team in terms of how we coached.

"Now, our players have the freedom to make a decision based on what they see in front of them, when they have the ball. We've looked to develop a pressurised situation in training that challenges their decision making and execution of their skills under immense pressure.

"That's what it comes down to in the four games. You have to give the players the autonomy and they have to assume the mantle of leadership to make the right decision every time, when they're under pressure.

"Otherwise, they going to be looking to the sideline to give them some hint or some direction. In our opinion, that is not going to work long term."

Stay up-to-date with this weekend's football and hurling championship action on our Match Tracker where we will be bringing live updates and scores from around the grounds.

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