Michael 'Babs' Keating fully expects Henry Shefflin to return from his latest injury setback and has backed him to become the greatest hurler of all-time.

The 33-year-old Kilkenny star, who has beaten two cruciate knee ligament injuries in recent years, is facing up to six months on the sideline due to shoulder surgery, but Keating is convinced he will be back in 2012 when he will bid to become the first man in either hurling or football to win nine All-Ireland medals.

"The big question is whether Henry wants it now. He's at the stage of his life where he can ask that question. He's a married man and with family, your priorities can change," the Tipp legend said in the Irish Sun.

"I don't think another All-Ireland medal would be his reason. I think surpassing Christy Ring's record (of winning eight All-Irelands on the field of play) would be his private target.

"If he can do that he can go down as the greatest hurler in every way. If he can do that it is a record that I can't see ever being surpassed." Tweet

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