Rising Kilkenny star Richie Power may yet feature in the All-Ireland quarter-final against Limerick on Sunday week.
The All-Ireland winning minor captain from 2003 went off with a shoulder injury in the first minute of Wednesday's under-21 Leinster final against Dublin at Dr Cullen Park and was immediately taken to Kilkenny hospital for X-rays.
However, county secretary Pat Dunphy confirmed Power had not sustained a fracture or serious ligament damage. "He could be beaten in the race against time but it is not as bad as first feared," said Dunphy. "Medical reports tell us it may settle in the next week as it is just ligament bruising so hopefully he has a chance of making it back for Sunday week."
Power has been a revelation this year, holding down a place in the most potent attack in the country. His loss would add to an injury list that contains All-Star full back Noel Hickey, Martin Comerford and Peter Barry.
Andrew O'Shaughnessy returned to the Limerick panel last night, although hurling PRO Denis Carroll claimed he never left in the first place. It was thought the player had become disillusioned with being repeatedly substituted and played out of position in the half-forward line.
"I am the county board spokesman and he did not leave the panel. He took a break for two days and has now returned," said Carroll.
The situation comes on the back of the resignation of team selector Declan Nash, who was replaced immediately by team trainer and manager of All-Ireland club champions Newtownshandrum, Ger Cunningham.
Damien Reale is making progress from the leg injury he sustained against Galway in their recent qualifier match and is expected to be available to face Kilkenny. Donal O'Grady, who injured a finger against Galway, is rated doubtful.
Meanwhile, Limerick will not be rushed into appointing a successor to football manager Liam Kearns. John Ryan, PRO for the football board, said Limerick would be taking their time and whoever replaced Kearns would have a high profile. It is unlikely any appointment will be made before September.
