Danny Sutcliffe set to feature for Dublin

Dublin manager Anthony Daly is hopeful Danny Sutcliffe can play some part in the Leinster Hurling Championship final against Kilkenny at Croke Park on Sunday.

All Star Sutcliffe suffered a fractured bone in his hand and missed the Leinster semi-final win over Wexford as a result.

However, he returned to training over the weekend and Daly confirmed last night that the St. Jude's man is in his plans for Sunday's provincial decider.

"I'd say he'll be in the 26," Daly said. "He could play some part. Whether that's a full part, tonight and Friday night will decide that really.

"He's a huge player for us, obviously. He did a bit of training on Friday and Sunday. A limited bit. He didn't take (a) full part. He's mad for road. He'd tell you he's fine alright. He goes full out. That's the way he plays. You would nearly have to hold him back."

Daly also confirmed that first-choice goalkeeper Gary Maguire will once again miss out with a broken thumb. Maguire is still in a cast and is due to see a specialist next week.

Alan Nolan is expected to deputise for Maguire, having performed very well in the 0-22 to 0-14 semi-final win over Wexford last month.

Dublin will also be without corner forward Mark Schutte because of a dislocated shoulder the Cuala clubman sustained against Wexford.

Meanwhile, Kilkenny also have a number of key players missing for the Croke Park showdown.

First-choice goalkeeper Eoin Murphy is definitely out with the elbow injury that forced him off just seven minutes into Saturday's Leinster semi-final replay win over Galway .

He was replaced in the game by David Herity, who is expected to take over No. 1 jersey on Sunday.

Michael Fennelly is also out of contention with a back injury while Richie Power will be sidelined for several more weeks with a knee injury.

"Eoin's injury is a hyper extension of the elbow. He is probably going to be out for a few weeks," said Cody.

"Highly unlikely for Michael Fennelly and not a hope Richie Power will be back."