Grimley set for spell on the sidelines

NIALL Grimley looks set to miss out on the rest of Armagh’s championship campaign having recently picked up a knee injury.

Gaelic Life understands that Grimley damaged his knee (MCL) in training and will be sidelined for 10-12 weeks.

The knock isn’t as bad as first feared, but with the reduced championship window, Grimley is unlikely to make it back in time for the All-Ireland series.

The Madden midfielder hasn’t featured at all in Armagh’s journey to Sunday’s Ulster final, where they hope to end a 15-year wait for an Ulster title against reigning champions Derry.

Grimley’s last championship outing was against Donegal in last year’s first round, but a neck injury kept him out for the remainder of 2022.

He returned to the fold this season and featured in all seven of Armagh’s league games, starting against Tyrone on the final day, scoring from a mark.

Kieran McGeeney’s options around the middle of the field will be hampered by Grimley’s absence.

Ben Crealey limped off against Down in the Ulster semi-final but could be fit for Sunday’s provincial final.

Ciaran Mackin and Jarly Og Burns have retreated to the half-back line, while Connaire Mackin will be an option around the centre of the park.