WHAT A MANN..

PAUL MANNION’S spike in form is down to the Dublin icon working harder than ever, according to Kilmacud Crokes team-mate Ross Mcgowan.

Mannion (above) has added vital physicality to his game in recent seasons and been rewarded with back to back All-star awards.

The prolific attacker will be a key member of Dublin’s Drive for Five in 2019 and Mcgowan said: “It’s his ambition, his determination, it’s huge and I guess that develops from being within the Dublin set-up. He’s added another string to his bow every year.

“You could see that bit extra in his game this year when he made a few incredible defensive interceptions and tackles.

“It’s just that willingness to do as much as you can for the team. Then he’s also practicing individually as well.

“I think it comes down to that motivation and ambition he has, he’s always looking to improve and that’s great because lads can feed off that and improve themselves.”