Peter Queally has revealed that Austin Gleeson is Waterford’s only injury concern ahead of their Munster SHC opener against All-Ireland champions Clare in three weeks’ time.

The Deise put a shock first round loss to Carlow behind them to lift the Allianz Hurling League Division 1B title following victory over Offaly yesterday and Queally is in no doubt that an improving injury picture aided their cause.

“We got a lot of bodies back, we had a lot of injuries in January,” the winning manager explained.

“We had a panel of 42 but against Carlow we had to get two players that were injured to tog out and make sure we had 26 on the day. It was the accumulation of injuries we had during that period.

“Gradually, fellas started to come back and freshen up the whole team. We got a few key fellas back at vital stages which helped us to perform better. It is hard for new fellas coming in when they are surrounded by new fellas as well to make an impression. I think getting the experienced fellas back as the league went on helped the new fellas perform.” 

He added: “They are all nearly back. We’d be hoping by next weekend, two weeks out from championship, nearly all bar Austin Gleeson. He’ll be a little bit longer, he suffered a more severe soft tissue injury in his hamstring. He might be a bit tight for the first round but everyone else will be back in time for it.” 

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