Galway boss Conor Hayes will not be drafting teenager Joe Canning into his squad for the National Hurling League.

The 17-year-old, who will be bidding for his third All-Ireland minor medal this year, was in devastating form as Portumna qualified for their first All-Ireland club final when they defeated holders James Stephens on Sunday.

Canning, younger brother of All-Star Ollie, scored 1-7 as the Galway champions won by 2-17 to 0-11. Five of his scores came from frees and one from a trademark sideline cut.

Canning looks set to go all the way, but Galway boss Hayes is going to be patient and has not included him in his 30-man squad for the league.

"He is a wonderful talent, a joy to watch. He has all the skills and looks set for a great career. But he is just too young at the moment. His time will come.

"Joe has several managers this year looking for him to be the key man. He has school commitments, three club teams and the Galway minors and probably the under--21s."

Galway, who defeated Clare by 2-17 to 0-17 at the weekend, open their league campaign away to Antrim next Sunday.