Paul Flynn has responded to comments made by Donal Og Cusack regarding the Tailteann Cup.
Three-time All-Ireland winner Cusack described the competition as "a sort of Gaelic football Grand National for disappointed also-rans", comments which have irked many Gaelic football fans.
He said on RTE's Morning Ireland: "The microwave hurling championship gets a little chance to breathe this weekend. The GAA has two provincial football finals and the start of the Tailteann Cup, which if you haven't heard of it's a sort of Gaelic football Grand National for disappointed also rans."
Former Dublin star Flynn responded to his RTE colleague's comments by saying: "Regardless of what Donal Og might have to say about football, the Tailteann Cup, similar to the Ring, Rackard, Meagher, McDonagh competitions in hurling are really important to offer developing counties compete in a competition they can win.
"But as importantly as that, is to allow them evolve as a group and every team needs that and they won’t evolve playing in the Sam Maguire and getting beaten convincingly week in, week out. So he (Donal Og) is well aware of the importance of these competitions to developing counties, both in hurling and in football."
READ NEXT:
Evan Ferguson told to learn from Robbie Keane's ill-fated move to Inter Milan by Tony Cascarino
Kerry GAA star Paudie Clifford pays tribute at funeral of mother Ellen: 'We will miss her so much'
Roy Keane and Gary Neville have made feelings clear on Declan Rice price tag
Star mare Princess Zoe removed from Tony Mullins' yard after disagreement between trainer and owner
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
