Paul Flynn believes Stephen Cluxton will play a massive role for Dublin this year.
The legendary goalkeeper ended his two-year exodus from the squad to take his place amongst the substitutes at Croke Park for Dublin's clash with Louth last weekend.
He was back on the bench for the Division Two final against Derry on Sunday, and has already got some minutes under his belt in a challenge match for the Dubs last week.
READ MORE: Dublin beat Derry in chaotic Division Two final
Cluxton's return poses questions over the goalkeeping situation within Dublin. David O'Hanlon has starred between the sticks so far this season, but Cluxton's comeback casts doubt over his standing as the number one choice keeper.
While some have questioned the logic behind Cluxton's return and have pondered what it means for the squad as a whole, Flynn believes the 41-year-old's return can only be a good thing for Dessie Farrell's side.
"David O’Hanlon has been the find of the league for Dublin," said Paul Flynn on RTÉ2’s Allianz League Sunday.
"His kickout is brilliant, short or long. In the second half, Dublin were able to use it as the foundation for their attacks.
"It’s obviously a big week with Stephen Cluxton returning to the panel… but David has done nothing wrong.
"I think David will learn from him and Stephen will be a great mentor.
"Stephen will play a really important role in Dublin’s championship run."
While O'Hanlon has excelled in the league this season, many feel Cluxton's comeback signals a return to the starting XV for the Parnells clubman.
Flynn is of the same belief, and doesn't believe Cluxton has come back to just be a squad player.
"Stephen is very humble and he’s a great team player. But he is also very competitive.
"He will be pushing David and to see David respond the way he did today is a sign of what he is made of.
"But I know Stephen will be very supportive to David in that role as well. And to the remainder of the squad, his football IQ is greater than anyone I played with.
"He will be identify a lot of the things that didn’t work out well today for Dublin and he’s a master at breaking down opposition defensive structures.
"So he’s going to be a fantastic addition to the panel going forward."
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