Meyler wants Cadogan to return to the Cork hurling squad while Ciarán Sheehan has yet to decide his next move

EOIN CADOGAN might have been busy on International Rules duty with Ireland in recent weeks – including last Saturday's second test against Australia – but he’s in demand here on Leeside.

The Douglas native is being asked return to the Cork hurling panel by new manager John Meyler. Though in top shape physically, Cadogan has struggled to stay match-fit in recent seasons, missing the football league in 2016 and 2017 and a host of club games.

The rumour mill suggested this week the 31-year-old’s recall would be part of Meyler’s plans along with younger brother Alan, which the news boss confirmed.

“He will be back in two or three weeks' time and we will talk to him then," Meyler told RTÉ Sport.

"He is a superbly fit athlete and he would add to the panel. He was involved with me (as fitness coach) with the U21 hurlers last year.

"He is a very good role model and a very good lad to have around the place in terms of the younger players, he could make a contribution.” 

Douglas club man Ronan McCarthy has taken over the footballers so it will be interesting to see what code Cadogan opts for.

"He has vast experience and these kinds of guys are going to be critical in the new Munster championship when there are four matches in five Sundays," explained Meyler.

"One of the main problems is that you can’t risk players. If they are slightly injured they are not going to be available to you the next Sunday."

Another Rebel in Australia, Ciarán Sheehan, has yet to decide if he’ll pursue a Cork comeback.

Sheehan, a late call-up to the Irish squad, was recently let go by Carlton having moved to the AFL in late 2013. The obvious next step would be coming home to Éire Óg, but he is settled into a new life Down Under with fiancé Amy Hartnett, from Shanagarry.

“I’m seeing what might happen, what opportunities might arise. I’m still not sure if I’m going to stay out here or if we’re going to go back home,” he said. “We’ve had a great four years. We really love Melbourne so we’re just kind of weighing up our options.

“We’ve been on this journey together for the last four years. The next step is important in what she wants to do. It’s an exciting time for both of us. It’s the next step. It’s a bit unknown at the moment but we’re excited to make a move.” Even more than Eoin Cadogan, Sheehan has been cursed by injuries.

“I’ve had a fair few setbacks. I’ve had six operations in the last two and a half years so it’s been very much an up and down career. I’ve had three hip surgeries, two knee surgeries, and a fairly badly broken nose this year.”