Madden makes surprise return

Kevin Madden (right) had a heart operation in February

Antrim footballer Kevin Madden has made a surprise return to action just 11 weeks after a heart operation.

Madden played for his club Portglenone, scoring one goal and a point in their Division Two victory over Davitts.

The player had surgery to repair a leaking valve in his heart in February.

It was thought Madden would be out of action until the autumn.

Brian White is delighted with Madden's progress

Instead, the 24-year-old forward could now find himself pushing for a place in the Antrim county team for the Ulster Championship.

Brian White's team open their Championship campaign against Derry on 3 June.

Manager White said: "Kevin would don the Antrim jersey in the morning, given the opportunity.

"But, we have got to be cautious and take our time."