Ciarán Kilkenny says League final was perfect preparation for championship

Dublin forward Ciarán Kilkenny says their league final defeat to Derry on penalties was the perfect preparation for the championship.

After a thrilling 90 minutes of action at the end of March, it was Derry who emerged as champions of Division One after a penalty shoot-out, and perhaps laying down a marker for the championship.

While Dublin responded with a comfortable win over rivals Meath on Saturday, Kilkenny says Dublin have more to work on if they are to retain their All-Ireland title.

He also admitted the huge respect he has for this Derry side, who Dublin are starting to become familiar with in the past two seasons.

"It was an unbelievable game to be involved in, and to be honest, the best preparation you can get leading into a championship campaign.

"From a tactical point of view to a fitness point of view, you get a 100 minutes in Croke Park, it was end to end, serious athleticism on display from both sides.

"The fact there was so many learning for us, I don't think you can have any better preparation.

"I have massive respect for Derry. There are an unbelievable team, and an unbelievable county with the tradition they have in the game.

"There is a serious buzz and energy in Derry at the moment, we have had loads of competitive games against them. As a competitor, you want to play against the best sides."

With Brian Fenton suspended for the Meath game, last Sunday saw Kilkenny in  midfield, a deeper position than we have come used to seeing the Castleknock man over the years.

With younger players making their mark in Dublin's forward line in the Allianz League campaign, particularly in the forward line, competition is high in Dessie Farrell's side.

Kilkenny says he is happy anywhere on the pitch, and will fill in