Damien Duff says he would ‘probably sack 90 per cent’ of people working at the FAI

'I would raze Abbotstown to the ground'

Duff was speaking just minutes before news of Heimir Hallgrímsson's appointment as Republic of Ireland manager, bringing an end to the lengthy wait to replace Stephen Kenny.

After looking for a new coach since November, Hallgrímsson's appointment was somewhat underwhelming despite the man being the brains behind the Iceland team that famously knocked England out of Euro 2016.

Coincidentally, his first game in charge of Ireland will be against England in the Nations League.

Duff seemingly calls for FAI restructure

There have long been calls for the FAI to step up their game and improve on various fronts, however, Shelbourne manager Duff had quite the take.

Responding to Extra.ie, he said: "I would raze Abbotstown to the ground because it’s the most uninviting, unenthusiastic workplace, not just in world football but in the world."

His comments were met with some chuckles, to which he replied: "The fact you’re laughing shows I’m not far off the f*****g mark.

"I used to dread going in there (as Irish coach) once a month. So I’d level it. And, I would probably sack 90% of the workforce."

Just as he was about to leave he then exclaimed: "I know the headlines tomorrow."

Duff excited to lead Shels on European adventure

Meanwhile, for the first time since 2008, Shelbourne are back in European action, facing St Joseph's from Gibraltar at Tolka Park and is looking forward to the continental journey.

"From minute one, the goal was Europe, and it was leading to one thing which was winning the title," he said.

"There is a lot of Mediterranean blood in the team and historically those players are more technical than Irish players.

"They are organised, they can frustrate you."