Michael’s motivation had a huge impact on players

DAVY FITZGERALD fulfilled his Late Late Show promise when young Michael O’Brien from Kerry gave his players a team talk ahead of their thrilling Allianz Hurling League victory over Tipperary in Innovate Wexford Park on Sunday.

Michael (11), who is visually impaired, warmed the hearts of the nation when he appeared on the Late Late Toy Show last November.

The young lad from Killarney in Co. Kerry revealed he was Fitzgerald’s biggest fan and couldn’t believe it when Ryan Tubridy introduced the Wexford boss who duly took his seat alongside him.

When told by Ryan, his initial incredulous response was ‘he’s not here’.

Speaking to Davy once he was introduced by Ryan, Michael said: ‘I have your book in the back of the car, right. And I need you to sign it.’

Fitzgerald remarked that he could do with someone like Michael around before telling him that he needs a ‘small bit of help’, before explaining his plight.

‘We have three important league games coming up. We’re playing Limerick, we’re playing Tipperary, and we’re playing Kilkenny.

‘I’d like you to come, maybe speak to the team before they go out, have a chat with them. Would you be up for something like that?’

Without skipping a beat, Michael took the Wexford manager up on his offer, telling him: ‘That’s a deal.’

Last Sunday Davy came through on his promise to Michael, who attended the Wexford dressing-room in Innovate Wexford Park ahead of their victory over Tipperary.

Commenting on Michael’s team talk on Twitter, Wexford coach Seoirse Bulfin said: ‘Absolute privilege to have Michael O’Brien today. What an inspiration to kids and adults alike. You could hear a pin drop when he spoke to the players before the game. A truly super young man.’

Prior to the game Michael accompanied Davy onto the pitch to take in the atmosphere of the 6,700 crowd, receiving a very warm round of applause.

Having seen Wexford fashion a thrilling 1-15 to 1-14 victory, Michael was accompanied to the Wexford dressing-room following the game where he joined in conversation with Davy and the player of the match, Darren Byrne, in front of the TV cameras.

This is what the G.A.A. is all about, capping a wonderful afternoon for Michael and his family.