Dublin boss Dessie Farrell says “it’s unlikely” Paul Mannion and Jack McCaffrey will be part of the capital men’s plan this year.

Both players had returned for the Dubs’ All-Ireland SFC success of 2023 after stints away from the panel but have opted out again.

Farrell was speaking after last night’s Allianz League Division 1 opening round win over Mayo at Croke Park, where he also confirmed that nine-time All-Ireland winning goalkeeper Stephen Cluxton is back training with the Leinster champions.

"These lads aren't ones for releasing retirement statements or whatever, but I’d say it’s unlikely that the two lads will be involved with us this year," he is quoted saying by RTE Sport.

"Of course, the door is always open if there’s any change of hearts or change of minds, but the way discussions have gone, it’s probably unlikely.

"Jack is very busy obviously in his profession, he's not working in Dublin this year, and Paul has significant commitments - work and family and that type of thing as well. It’s unlikely, but we never close the door, and possibly, they don’t want to either so we’ll see how it goes."

He added: "Stephen (Cluxton) has been back with us. He's had a small little cleanout of the knee. He’s working his way back from that, but he’s been involved from the start. We’re looking forward to having him back in the next couple of weeks, to full participation in training, we hope."

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