Walsh close to Galway return

Galway ace Shane Walsh could be set to make his return from injury for the Tribesmen when they take on Dublin in the opening round of the All-Ireland SFC series group stage this weekend.

Walsh has not played for the Connacht champions since injuring his back during their Allianz League encounter with the Dubs – a game which saw him substituted at half-time as the capital men went on to win by 2-19 to 2-13 at Croke Park.

Galway boss Padraic Joyce had been optimistic over his star forward’s chances of playing in the Connacht championship, but he wouldn’t feature in any of their three outings.

However, reports are that the Kilmacud Crokes sharpshooter is on the brink of a return after making strides in his recovery and it could see him playing a part in Saturday’s showdown with the Dubs at Pearse Stadium (5pm).