David Clifford's Impact on Kerry Football: A Closer Look

The first time David Clifford's name was mentioned was in the Fossa notes on P65 of the Kerryman in May 2005. The club’s Under-10 mixed panel had David Clifford, only six at the time, and older brother 'Padraig' Clifford. Twenty years later, Clifford’s name is in the media ahead of Sunday’s All-Ireland final between Kerry and Donegal. Rarely has there been such focus on a player in an All-Ireland final. The question in every article is how to handle one of the greatest forwards in the game.

Former Derry minor manager Damian McErlain and Armagh defender Barry McCambridge shared insights on facing Clifford. In the 2017 All-Ireland Minor final, Clifford scored 4-04 against Derry. His performance was exceptional, including defense-splitting passes. McErlain noted the challenge of containing Clifford and emphasized the importance of team effort to stop him.

McErlain shared his experience of facing Clifford in previous years and highlighted the need for a collective effort to neutralize his impact. McCambridge also discussed his battles with Clifford and emphasized the need for concentration and teamwork in defending against top forwards like Clifford.

Clifford's impressive performances in the championship have posed a challenge for defenders. McCambridge advised Donegal's Brendan McCole to maintain concentration and be aware of Clifford's movement patterns. Facing top forwards requires constant focus and teamwork to limit their impact.

Watch the All-Ireland Football Championship final, Donegal v Kerry, on Sunday from 2.15pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Follow a live blog on rte.ie/sport and the RTÉ News app. Listen to commentary on RTÉ Radio 1. Watch highlights on The Sunday Game from 9.30pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player.

According to the source: RTE.ie.