The big interview with Robert Downey: You've pucked a hundred big games for Cork against the wall before you ever pull on the jersey

The towering defender has the stature of a basketballer but the small-ball game has always consumed him. While he doesn’t turn 20 until September, he’s packed a lot into the last few years.

“You get up in the morning and you’re out against the wall pucking and you’ve hurled a hundred All-Irelands against the wall before you get near one.”

With Kilkenny stunning Cork in the All-Ireland quarter-final, the U20s are the last (young) men standing for Cork hurling. Whether Denis Ring’s team win or lose in Semple Stadium, they’ll meet Kilkenny or Wexford in the All-Ireland semi-final.

“I’d be very close with Johnny, he’s had a word in my ear plenty of times over the last few years and he’s an unbelievable coach and motivator. He’s got man-to-man personal skills, so he’s kinda like one of the players but still gives out to you when needs be.

“I was in Christians since primary school but I got to know Donie from first year. He was brilliant from then on. He’s a top man and is great for advice. Tony Wall was in Christians too and in the Glen minor team.

“We lost an U16 county final against Piarsaigh at Páirc Uí Rinn but we were always told that minor is the first big one, not U14, U15 and U16. The thing was just to be competitive, in the top four. The Glen is a proud club and there’s a lot expected of you but you’ve to accept that. It’s not being cocky but the Glen have massive history.

“JJ Delaney. The best defender who ever played. Tommy Walsh was unreal too but JJ could do everything. The hook he did on Seamus Callanan. I always looked up to him. I got a black helmet because he had one and I got a black wristband for a while because he had one. He was unbelievable in the air, the knack of getting in around you, and he was teak-tough on the ground.”
