O'Connell to feature alongside Kobe in '27

Liam O'Connell on U20 duty for Cork ©INPHO/Ben Brady

Cork’s Liam O’Connell will be one of three Irishmen representing AFL side St Kilda in 2027.

Having gone to the club as a rookie in 2023, the now 23-year-old former Cork U20 footballer made his Premiership debut for the Saints 18 months ago and enjoyed a very successful campaign Down Under in 2026.

The club confirmed on its website that the brilliant Ballincollig native has been tied down for another year, where he will be keeping company with Mayo’s young All-Ireland hero Kobe McDonald:

“Liam O’Connell will return in 2027 after playing 13 games this year and becoming a regular fixture in the AFL backline during the back half of the season.

“The Irishman continues to expand his game after joining the club as a Category B rookie ahead of 2024.

“He will form part of an Irish trio at RSEA Park in 2027, alongside Kobe McDonald and Eamonn Armstrong.”