Brian Cody answers James Stephens call

Brian Cody's hiatus from hurling has proven a brief one, with the former Kilkenny manager returning to the club game as a selector with James Stephens.

Cody's trophy-laden career as the Cats manager came to an end after 24 seasons with an All-Ireland final loss to Limerick in July, but his home club have succeeded in luring him back to the sidelines.

James Stephens, who have endured a trying season in the Kilkenny club championship, are currently managed by Seamus Dwyer, with former Laois manager John Sugrue part of the backroom team.

The Village – captained by Cody's youngest son Diarmuid – last won their county championship in 2011.

Next up for James Stephens is relegation semi-finals/championship round 1 encounter against Lisdowney after defeats in recent weeks to O'Loughlin Gaels and Dickboro.