Stephen Cluxton’s surprise return has caused quite a stir in the GAA world with Pat Spillane the latest to give his take on the situation.
Onlookers were shocked when they spotted the 41-year-old goalkeeper warming up before Dublin’s clash last Sunday.
Many supporters were delighted with his return but some questioned the long-term plan for the Dublin squad.
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Writing in the Sunday World, Spillane went in on the decision to bring the veteran goalkeeper back.
“I imagine I wasn’t alone in thinking it was April Fool’s Day when news filtered through from Croke Park last Sunday that Stephen Cluxton was in the Dublin squad.” He wrote.
“I know he is a superb leader and goalkeepers can operate well into their 40s these days. I know, too, this could be the most open All-Ireland Championship since 2010. So, it’s all about marginal gains.
“But I don’t see why Cluxton couldn’t just be added to the management team, where his expertise would be invaluable.
“Why embarrass the current goalkeepers Shane O’Hanlon and Evan Comerford – even if the latter is injured – by suddenly parachuting Cluxton back into the squad.
“And what kind of message is his return sending out to all the young goalkeepers who dream of making it into the Dublin squad?
“This could come back to haunt me before the end of the summer, but right now I regard Cluxton’s return as a joke.”