Paul Mannion says playing for Dublin this year is not in his plans.
Mannion hasn’t entirely closed the door on a return to inter-county football.
But his decision to sit out the 2022 season is a major blow to Dublin’s chances of winning back the All-Ireland title.
The six-time All-Ireland winner is currently gearing up for Kilmacud Crokes’ AIB Leinster senior final encounter with Naas at Croke Park tomorrow.
“I’ve spoken to a couple of the lads (Dublin players). I’ve told them that it’s not in my plans for this year (and) that I don’t want it to be a distraction for them.
“I’ve told them that my attention is focusing on the club now, that I’m enjoying that.”
Mannion also shrugged off fears that a knee injury could rule him out of tomorrow’s club provincial decider.
The 28-year-old forward was an impact substitute in Dessie Farrell’s first year in 2020, before leaving the squad.
On his big Inter-county decision, the Kilmacud Crokes star is relaxed.
“Dessie made (it) clear to me last year when I was stepping away that the door will still be open.
“My teammates said similar to me as well, which I did really appreciate, because I often don’t know what I want to do from one week to the next, never mind one year to the next.
“For the time being I’m happy out with the decision.
“The plan is just to stick with that (club football) for the year.”
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