Cian and Jack closing in on return to full training

With the commencement of this year's Leinster SFC just around the corner Dublin manager Jim Gavin gave an update on his squad as they prepare for their provincial quarter-final clash against the winner's of Offaly versus Wicklow.

Paul Flynn returned to competitive action for Fingallians in the Dublin SFC2 last weekend and got a full 60 minutes under his belt following a back injury.

“We could have pushed him (Paul) through the National League and brought him back a little bit earlier but Paul has been very diligent with the medical team,” said Jim at Thursday's launch of the Leinster SFC at Trim Castle, Meath.

“He’s in tip top condition now. Great to see Paul back."

Dublin's flying wing-back Jack McCaffrey, who suffered a cruciate injury in the early minutes of last September's All-Ireland SFC final victory over Mayo is making good progress.

“Jack is very close now, too,” added Jim.

While Cian O'Sullivan who required a shoulder operation towards the end of the league is closing in on his comeback date.

“Cian O’Sullivan is very close again. So good to have them coming back into the squad again," stated the Dublin manager.

Jim also confirmed that Diarmuid Connolly is not currently training with the panel.

“The situation is just that Diarmuid has not been available to play club football or hurling with his club or with the county as well.

“We respect that decision and hope everybody else does as well. It is an amateur sport.

“But that said, the door will always be open for Diarmuid, I know for certain with his club and with the county.

“And hopefully we’ll see him back playing Gaelic games soon.”