Austin Gleeson was the Hurler of the Year in 2016 at the grand old age of 21.

A minor All-Ireland and an U21 All-Ireland winner, the world was at the Mount Sion man's feet.

Yet with great talent, comes great expectation.

Fast forward eight years, and a Celtic Cross and Munster medal have eluded the 29-year-old - though not for the want of trying.

Two All-Ireland final heartbreaks, injury issues and a host of unwarranted attention for reasons right and wrong - suddenly it all became a bit much for Gleeson. Time for a break.

Now rejuvenated and ready to pick up where he left off, the All-Star has grand ambitions to live up to the billing which he has had to carry on his shoulders for so long. It now represents an opportunity, as opposed to burden.

2024 has been a strange one for Gleeson, watching from the stands in Walsh Park rather than reveling in the cut and thrust of championship do-or-die, but it's better to miss a year, than to be missed for good.

He spoke to Jordan Norris on the Last Leg - and you can listen back by pressing the play button on the photo above.