Reidy ready to play part for Limerick in Sunday’s showdown with Kilkenny

Limerick hurler David Reidy is happy to contribute in any way possible as the Shannonsiders bid to complete a run of four All-Ireland titles in a row.

The Dromin-Athlacca clubman has been sprung from the bench in recent years to excellent effect, but he could be in line for a starting spot in the All-Ireland final with Kilkenny on Sunday.

Reidy started in the Munster final victory over Clare and was also handed a starting berth for the recent All-Ireland semi-final win over Galway.

“Everyone wants to start as many games as they possibly can,” Reidy said ahead of Sunday’s big final.

“The All-Ireland final is no different. From the minute you get back in in January to whenever the season finishes up, you want to start every game.

There is incredible competition within the panel. We are lucky. You have to knuckle down now. There is no team picked until the Friday night before the All-Ireland final. It’s a big time ahead.”

Reidy has had to play the long game in getting his chance under John Kiely. He was part of the squad that won a Munster title in 2013 but only made a couple of appearances in the space of four years.

That led to a move to Kildare for a season before he was brought back into the fold under Kiely. He hasn’t looked back since.

“It’s a massive privilege to be involved in such a great set-up,” he said. “Everyone is rowing in the one direction. It’s a childhood dream to play in Croke Park and a big enjoyment factor.

“I thoroughly enjoy coming to training, going to the gym and meeting up with the lads. The enjoyment factor is absolutely huge.

“Obviously, you want to start but it’s a privileged position to be in the 37 players that are named in the panel. You want to be on the field as much as you can and contribute as much as you can. Whether that be starting or coming in off the bench.

Whatever little job you can do to help the team, I’m trying to do that as best I can.

“We have unbelievable respect for everyone in the group. John always says that it’s next man up. It’s unfortunate that Sean Finn and Declan Hannon went down, but last year it was the same with Peter Casey and Cian Lynch.

“Everyone is ready,” he added. “Whoever needs to step up is always ready and that’s a testament to the character in the group and the players in the group as well.”

Whether he starts or not in the final, Reidy will aim to contribute to the cause. One thing is for sure, he will only be looking forward to the next challenge.