The perception of Davy Fitzgerald is far from the truth, according to Waterford manager Derek McGrath.

The two men will go head to head on Sunday as the Deise take on Clare in the Allianz NHL Division One final.

And McGrath has the height of respect for the former Waterford manager who is often perceived as temperamental given his demeanour on the sideline.

This could not be further from the truth according to McGrath who told a different story to the Waterford News & Star.

"We were relegated and beaten by Wexford in my first year in charge," said McGrath. "I spent a whole day down with Davy that year and we have a good chat.

"He is a very personable fella. He approached me a couple of times in 2009 and 2010 to get involved with Waterford as a coach. Initially, I said to myself that I would do it but I was still playing with De La Salle at that time and I wanted to play for another couple of years."

He added: "I find the perception of Davy is unfair and untrue at times. You see this animated figure and sometimes people associate animation with not being able to make a calculated decision. That's overlooked with Davy; he's shrewd and he's an absolutely fanatical hurling man."

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