Kilkenny must plan without DJ Carey for their National Hurling League semi-final clash with Galway on Sunday week. The 27-year-old damaged a hamstring in a weekend club game and could be out of action for up to a month.

"The early indications are that this is a big problem," Carey said yesterday. "The league semi-final is definitely out and I don't know how long more I will be out."

Carey has been in good form throughout the league. He continued his good run in Sunday's club game against last year's county champions Graigue Ballycallan, scoring six points.

"This is a big blow to us," said Kilkenny manager Brian Cody. "DJ has made so much happen for the team this season and his commitment has been wonderful."

Kilkenny will also be without midfielder Stephen Grehan who has a broken bone in his hand.