Kieran Hughes needs surgery on a badly damaged hand, but he’s determined to soldier through the pain barrier and see Scotstown’s Ulster Club Championship challenge through.
The Monaghan star won’t start at Clones on Sunday, but he’ll be on the bench and ready to answer the call should his side need a late push to get past Donegal champions Kilcar.
Hughes broke a thumb and damaged ligaments in the drawn county semi-final against Ballybay.
He was unable to start the replay, nor did he feature in the starting fifteen for the final against Magheracloone, but came on as a sub in both games to help his side over the line to a third straight championship title.
His direct running and vision were a major asset in the closing stages of the decider at Clones, an incisive run setting up star attacker Conor McCarthy for a brilliant and decisive second goal.
Any surgical intervention will be delayed until the Farney champions’ involvement in the series ends.
“He needs surgery on the hand and we know that. It’s too big a risk to start him,” said older brother Darren, who represented the club at the Ulster Club Championship launch at Garvaghey.
“It’s looking like he’ll be available to play some part against Kilcar, but he hasn’t been able to start the last two games.
“We brought him on with 15 minutes to go in both games. It will be a good impact to have, but that’s not to say he doesn’t fall on it and maybe do more damage.”
McCarthy scored 1-8 in a scintillating attacking display as the holders saw off Magheracloone by 2-17 to 0-13, enhancing his growing reputation as one of the most exciting talents in the game.
“We have known that this long time, a long time before anybody else knew it, and he’s proving himself now on the big day to be a top player,” said Hughes.
“He’s doing it for Monaghan on a regular basis, and he’s doing it for us, and he’s wanting to push on into the Ulster Club Championship.”
And McCarthy has proven that he has not just the talent, but the temperament to deal with the pressure of a big occasion.
“You’ll do a lot to annoy him, and in fairness he’s a great young fellow, he’s an exceptional talent. We knew his ability from an early age within the club.
“He has pushed himself on as best possible, and he seems to be improving year on year. It’s great to see, and I’m sure he thinks himself there’s more to come from him.”
