The Cork hurlers have been boosted by the return of an All-Ireland winner to their panel

JBM will be happy

Cork's defence has been their weakpoint for the last two seasons. Retirements and injuries have meant that the Munster champions have often had to start with players not always natural to their place in the defensive six. However they have been given a major boost to tonight with the news that Bride Rovers clubman Brian Murphy is back on the county panel. Long term injuries to Christopher Joyce and Lorcán McLoughlin have seen Cork in somewhat of defensive crisis ahead of their Munster opener with Waterford next month. Murphy's last game for the county was in the 2013 All-Ireland final replay loss to Clare and he may now be a serious option for the clash in Thurles. The news of the defender's return was made on the Cork GAA website tonight

'Ace defender Brian Murphy rejoins Cork panel. Following impressive recent championship form the Bride Rovers clubman has rejoined the senior hurling squad. Commenting on the news, team manager Jimmy Barry Murphy expressed his appreciation at Brian’s decision to make himself available particularly in light of recent injuries to Christopher Joyce and Lorcán McLoughlin.' 'An experienced and talented defender, the All Ireland medalist and former All Star affords further options to the Cork selectors as they prepare for their June 7th. Munster championship game against Waterford.'

Cork supporters on Twitter are clear on where they want the returning All-Ireland winner to play

Brian Murphy is a welcome return to the Cork squad if true...quality defender !

— Diarmuid O'Sullivan (@dsully3) May 26, 2015

Put Brian Murphy in a at full back against Waterford.

— Tucky (@tuckyob) May 26, 2015

I've always liked Brian Murphy. Where will he play tho, is he the answer to corks full back problem? #hurling #cork

— Gary Coughlan (@coughman24) May 26, 2015

H/T to Cork GAA