Joe Canning is a supreme talent, that’s a statement that can't be argued with, but some have argued his talent is not being maximized by the Galway management, as he's often stationed too far away from goal. While that might be an outsider’s view that doesn't seem to be the attitude of the 24 year old, who’s been telling us he's happy to play wherever he’s put, despite being a lightning rod for criticism – criticism that sometimes feels like it goes too far.

Canning told Newstalk Breakfast’s Oisin Langan about how he feels harsh criticism, based purely on the scoring stats – in particular the criticism coming from those who haven’t played at inter-county level, or haven’t played modern inter-county hurling - can be over the top, misguided and a heavy load to bear.

In an honest and frank interview, at the launch of the Bord Gais Energy under 21 hurling Championship, the 3 time all Star, and 3 time All Ireland club winner with Portumna, talks about not playing well in last year’s All Ireland final re-play (his words) and malicious mail he received from an anonymous member of the public. Canning admits this sort of abuse can be a hard obstacle to overcome at times and has, on occasion, given him, albeit fleeting, pause for thought about his inter-county future.

First though they talked about how the under 21 grade, in which he won an All-Ireland, helped craft him as a hurler.

Image: Joe Canning ©INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan

Listen to the full interview via the player below