by Jackie Cahill

Waterford defender Shane Fives is rated as "very doubtful" for Sunday's Allianz Hurling League Division 1 final replay with Clare - but Austin Gleeson will be fit to play.

Fives damaged his ankle in the drawn match last Sunday and may not be risked as Waterford aim to retain their League crown at the second time of asking.

Gleeson was also forced off with cramp but will be fully recovered in time for the Semple Stadium rematch.

Maurice Shanahan could also earn a start after his cameo role last Sunday, which culminated in that stunning 92^nd minute free to ensure a replay.

When asked if Tourin clubman Fives would be ruled out for the weekend, McGrath replied: "very doubtful."

Gleeson, meanwhile, is emphatic that he will be available, stating: "I will indeed, (it was) only cramps last week."

McGrath is expected to announce his team on Friday evening and Conor Gleeson, who made his League debut against Galway in March, could come into the starting line-up if Fives is ruled out.

Fourmilewater player Gleeson, an All-Ireland minor medallist in 2013, replaced Fives last Sunday and is an obvious replacement to step in. 

The big question for McGrath is who he leaves out up front if Shanahan is handed a start.

The Lismore man replaced Jake Dillon in the 57^th minute last Sunday and that could be the switch that McGrath opts for from the start.

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