GALWAY manager Padraic Joyce has confirmed that Liam Silke is unavailable for the 2023 campaign.

Silke to miss 2023 campaign

Walsh on break after All-Ireland club run

GALWAY manager Padraic Joyce will be without star defender Liam Silke for the forthcoming National League Division 1 and All-Ireland Senior Football Championship campaigns.

Speaking to Herald Sport on Tuesday morning, Joyce confirmed that the four-time All-Ireland club winner with Corofin and current All-Star will be remaining in New Zealand where he is currently working as a doctor.

The news means that the Tribesmen must plan without two members of their starting backline from last year's All-Ireland final defeat to Kerry after cruciate ligament victim Kieran Molloy was already ruled out of the entire inter-county season.

The Connacht champions will be without a third player who saw significant gametime in July's decider at Croke Park with An Spidéal forward Finnian Ó Laoi travelling in Australia.

Shane Walsh will also be on Galway's absentee list for Saturday's Division 1 opener against Mayo…

For an exclusive interview with Galway manager Padraic Joyce and more, check out this week’s Tuam Herald or log onto our digital edition HERE