Galway talisman Joe Canning faces up to four months on the sideline and is set to go under the knife to treat a groin injury, Galway GAA confirmed in a statement today.
The injury means that Canning will likely miss the entire Leinster championship in what is a massive blow to Galway's 2019 championship hopes.
The five-time All Star is central to the Tribesmen's attack and picked up the injury in the dying embers of their Allianz League semi-final defeat to Waterford last week.
In another blow to manager Michael Donoghue, Fintan Burke also sustained a cruciate ligament injury and is out for the rest of 2019.
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The statement said: "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.
"Speaking today, 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.”"
Galway begin their Leinster championship campaign at home to Carlow on Sunday May 12th.
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