Dublin’s John Small Expected to Sit Out 2025 Season
March 7, 2025
Dublin’s John Small celebrates after scoring a goal against Derry.
DUBLIN (AP) — Dublin’s chances for another All-Ireland Senior Football Championship title may be slightly diminished as star defender John Small is unlikely to play this season, according to teammate Ciaran Kilkenny.
The news follows speculation that Small,a seven-time All-Ireland SFC winner,would be joining Brian Fenton adn James McCarthy,who retired at the end of last year,along with Paul Mannion,Mick Fitzsimons,and Jack McCaffrey,in stepping away from the Dublin panel.
Kilkenny Confirms Small’s Absence, Praises Impact
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Aer Lingus College Classic, Kilkenny addressed the rumors, stating, ”It’s unlikely that John is going to be with us this year. He knows he’d be welcome to come in if he wanted, but it’s unlikely he’ll be back this year.”
Kilkenny lauded Small’s contributions to the team, highlighting his physical prowess, versatility, and frequently enough-underestimated skill. “John, he’s an absolute powerful specimen, absolute powerhouse,” Kilkenny said. “He could nullify a key forward and then go up to pitch and clip a couple of scores or get a goal or make a couple of big offensive plays.”
Opportunity Knocks for Rising Talent
Small’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by Dublin, though, Kilkenny emphasized the opportunity this presents for other players to step up and prove their worth. “He offers so much in terms of his attitude, his mindset and underrated foot skills, he’s got incredible foot skills and control of the ball,” Kilkenny stated.
“So John will be missed, but look, it’s a good opportunity for another player to step up.”
here are two PAA-related questions based on the article:
Dublin’s John Small Expected to Sit Out 2025 Season
March 7, 2025
Dublin’s John Small celebrates after scoring a goal against Derry.
DUBLIN (AP) — Dublin’s chances for another All-Ireland Senior football Championship title may be slightly diminished as star defender John Small is unlikely to play this season, according to teammate Ciaran Kilkenny.
The news follows speculation that Small,a seven-time all-Ireland SFC winner,would be joining Brian Fenton adn James McCarthy,who retired at the end of last year,along with Paul Mannion,Mick Fitzsimons,and Jack McCaffrey,in stepping away from the Dublin panel.
Kilkenny Confirms small’s Absence, Praises Impact
Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Aer Lingus College Classic, Kilkenny addressed the rumors, stating, ”It’s unlikely that John is going to be with us this year. He knows he’d be welcome to come in if he wanted, but it’s unlikely he’ll be back this year.”
Kilkenny lauded Small’s contributions to the team, highlighting his physical prowess, versatility, and frequently enough-underestimated skill. “John, he’s an absolute powerful specimen, absolute powerhouse,” Kilkenny said. “He could nullify a key forward and then go up to pitch and clip a couple of scores or get a goal or make a couple of big offensive plays.”
Chance Knocks for Rising Talent
Small’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by Dublin, though, Kilkenny emphasized the opportunity this presents for other players to step up and prove their worth. “He offers so much in terms of his attitude, his mindset and underrated foot skills, he’s got remarkable foot skills and control of the ball,” Kilkenny stated.
“So John will be missed, but look, it’s a good opportunity for another player to step up.”
Q&A: John Small’s Absence and dublin’s Future
- Q: Why isn’t John Small playing in 2025?
- A: While the exact reason isn’t explicitly stated, teammate Ciaran Kilkenny confirmed that Small is “unlikely” to play this season, hinting at a personal decision to step away, similar to other veteran Dublin players.
- Q: Who else has retired from dublin recently?
- A: Brian Fenton, James McCarthy, Paul Mannion, Mick Fitzsimons, and Jack McCaffrey all retired at the end of last year.
- Q: What impact will Small’s absence have on Dublin?
- A: Small’s absence will be important. Kilkenny highlighted his physicality, versatility, and underrated skills as key assets. He was a defensive powerhouse who could contribute offensively.
- Q: What opportunities arise from Small’s absence?
- A: His absence creates opportunities for younger players to step up and prove their worth, potentially reshaping the Dublin team dynamic. It’s a chance for new talent to emerge and fill the void.
- Q: What is the Aer Lingus College Classic?
- A: The article references the 2025 Aer Lingus College Classic, an American college football game played in Dublin. This event provides a platform for GAA figures like kilkenny to speak.
John Small’s absence marks a pivotal moment for Dublin football; it is now time to watch and see wich players will rise to the challenge and seize the opportunity to make their mark on the team.
