Updated Jun 16th 2021, 5:03 PM

MAYO’S PREPARATION FOR the 2021 championship have been dealt a major blow with the news that star forward Cillian O’Connor is to undergo a procedure this week on an Achilles tendon injury.

O’Connor suffered the injury in last Sunday’s Division 2 promotion play-off against Clare in Ennis.

The length of his layoff from action has not been specified in the statement released by Mayo GAA this afternoon.

But with Mayo in championship action in ten days time against Sligo when they head to Markievicz Park for their Connacht quarter-final on 26 June, the timing of the injury is a setback for the player and the Mayo squad.

Cillian O’Connor in action for Mayo against Clare’s Ciaran Russell.

Source: Laszlo Geczo/INPHO

O’Connor made his 100th appearance for the Mayo senior side in last Sunday’s game, scoring 1-4 before he was forced off. A two-time All-Star winning forward, the Ballintubber man made his senior championship debut for the county in 2011.

He has become a hugely important figure in the Mayo side, particularly with several experienced colleagues having retired over the last couple of seasons.

The full Mayo statement in relation to his injury reads:

“Following last Sunday’s NFL game versus Clare GAA all injured players received further assessment with the Mayo medical team.

“Cillian O’Connor sustained an Achilles Tendon injury that will require a procedure this week.

“We wish him well and look forward to seeing him on the playing field again as soon as possible.”

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