Star forward Donal O'Hare has been added to Down's ever-growing injury list.

The Mourne County's top scorer in the league faces a race against time to be fit for their Ulster SFC clash with Derry in three weeks time.

"Donal O'Hare has lower back and hamstring problems," manager James McCartan revealed to the Irish News.

"Fingers crossed he will be back for the first round of the Championship."

It recently emerged that defender Conor Garvey will miss the championship after sustaining a serious eye injury in a work-related accident while Conor Laverty is also battling injury.

"Conor Laverty hasn't completed a Down training session since Dublin beat us (March 23)," added McCartan.

"He has knee problems. Aidan Carr hasn't kicked a ball in anger since Mayo (March 9).

"Peter Turley, who replaced Aidan Carr has a hamstring strain. Niall McParland (stress fracture) is still on the long-term injury list."

Despite their injury headaches, which also includes Dan Gordon and Liam Doyle, McCartan revealed that the mood in the camp is positive ahead of the clash with the Oak Leaf County.

"I have never seen it better. With the injuries and the guys who went away, sometimes when we finish training the numbers are in the teens.

"But I have to say the bond between the boys has never been better. Maybe that has got something to so with the fact that the numbers are low. But they have rounded the wagons and the spirit is absolutely excellent. I couldn't fault the boys for that." Tweet

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