David Clifford returns to Kerry panel for Mayo trip

Footballer of the Year David Clifford could return to action for Kerry this weekend after the Fossa star was named in the Kerry match-day panel for the Allianz Division 1 clash with Mayo in Castlebar.

Manager Jack O'Connor has made just one change in personnel for Saturday night’s heavyweight clash in Castlebar – older brother Paudie named at centre-forward after his goal-scoring exploits last time on against Monaghan – but it is the presence of David among the substitutes that will catch the eye.

After an incredible 2022 trophy haul, collective and individual, it is the 24-year-old's first involvement with Kerry since helping Fossa to All-Ireland junior glory in Croke Park last month.

Fellow All Stars Seán O'Shea and goalkeeper Shane Ryan are also named among the substitutes.

In total O’Connor has named half a dozen of the side that started last year’s All-Ireland final against Galway.

Mayo manager Kevin McStay meanwhile has made two changes to his team.

Castlebar Mitchell's Donnacha McHugh comes into the defence in place of Jack Coyne, while Diarmuid O'Connor returns to midfield to partner Matthew Ruane, with Fionn McDonagh moving into the half forward line in place of Jack Carney.

Kerry: S Murphy; G O’Sullivan, J Foley, T O’Sullivan; P Warren, T Morley, P Murphy; J Barry, B O’Sullivan; D Moynihan, P Clifford, M Burns; T Brosnan, D Roche, D O’Sullivan.

Subs: S Ryan, K Spillane, D Casey, J O’Shea, G Horan, S Okunbor, S O’Shea, D Clifford, G Crowley, B Friel, M Ryan, R Buckley.

Mayo: C Reape; D McBrien, R Brickenden, E Hession; S Coen, C Loftus, D McHugh; M Ruane, D O’Connor; F McDonagh, B Tuohy, J Flynn; A O’Shea, J Carr, R O’Donoghue.