Yet that’s what makes the GAA unique: mass-spectator sports played by amateurs on a recreational basis and consequently not always life’s priority even for multi-decorated performers.
He is someone with a busy career, who has found club involvement sufficiently fulfilling and without the stratospheric demands of intercounty. There are those who find this attitude unfathomable. Some former Dublin players will say privately that they see it as almost a dereliction of duty. You only have so long in the Dublin jersey and that time should be spent putting your talents at the disposal of the county.
Last July, Farrell addressed the situation with greater sympathy indirectly, as he was talking about Kevin McManamon and Philly McMahon, both of whom have since retired.