Bad news for Galway as Joe Canning set for extended spell on the sidelines

Five-time All Star Joe Canning will undergo surgery to repair an injured groin following Galway's National League semi-final defeat to Waterford last weekend.

Canning pulled up lame after the loss and could now spend up to 16 weeks on the sideline which would theoretically rule him out for the remainder of Galway's season unless the Tribesman make a deep run in the All-Ireland hurling championship. Galway GAA confirmed the news in a statement on their website. The statement reads: "On Sunday March 24th, Joe Canning injured his groin in the Allianz National Hurling League Semi-Final against Waterford. The injury will require surgery and there is an expected recovery period of between 14 to 16 weeks. "On March 17th, Fintan Burke damaged his cruciate knee ligaments in the AIB All-Ireland Club Hurling Final playing for his club St. Thomas. The injury will require surgery and Fintan will not be available to play for the remainder of the 2019 season. "Galway GAA wish both Joe and Fintan all the best in their recoveries and will be providing them with all the necessary medical supports to aid them. Commenting on the loss of Canning, Galway Senior Hurling Manager Micheál Donoghue said “I, and all the team wish Joe and Fintan a speedy recovery from their injuries. They were both very unlucky to pick up injuries at this stage in the season.” “Even by his own high standards, Joe Canning’s performances this year have been exceptional. He is in good spirits and has a positive mindset facing surgery and rehab period.”