Shane Stapleton has named his shortlist for Hurler of the Year so far this year.

Speaking on OTBAM, the Cuala hurler discussed the players that have impressed him so far this year with Ger Gilroy and Eoin Sheahan.

Stapleton was impressed by one player in particular during the Clare and Limerick game at the weekend. “Is John Conlon up there for hurler of the year at the moment? He’s been fantastic.”

The Clare half-forward has been impressing not just with his displays this year, but in previous Championships too. “I remember one day against Wexford, they went down to 13 men, when they got knocked out, and he scored I think 1-5 that day.”

Sheahan was in agreement with the Tipp wing-back with Conlon’s credentials so far this year. “He’s certainly reached the peak in his career. Hurler of the year right now you’d say.”

Clare’s opponents Limerick had a very impressive league campaign, with full-back Mike Casey getting a mention from Stapleton, bringing his club form with him into the league. “Mike Casey has been really good anytime I’ve seen him, brilliant in the club championship all year for Na Piarsigh.”

For Gilroy, it was hard to look past last year’s All Ireland winners come the business end of the year. “Obviously Galway will have some contenders by the end of the season.”

Stapleton was quick to mention three Tribesmen players that have caught the Cuala man’s eye. “I’d say Padraic Mannion will be up there again, I think he was definitely someone who should’ve been nominated last year”

“Daithi Burke has been exceptional. Conor Whelan, I think, he’s just waiting to explode again, he had an unbelievable battle with Eoghan O Donnell, the dublin corner back last week. I think Noel Conners is the only man to really keep him down last year in the All Ireland Final, so I’d put him up there as well.”

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