Shelbourne name ex-Premier League defender as new boss after shock Damien Duff exit

An 'unexpected' appointment

Duff's right-hand man, assistant manager Joey O'Brien, has been named as their new boss on a long-term contract.

O’Brien, who earned five caps for Republic of Ireland and played in the Premier League for both Bolton and West Ham, joined the footballing staff at Shelbourne in 2021.

He was Duff's assistant manager as Shelbourne won the League of Ireland title in 2024, their first in 18 years.

Shels, sitting fifth in the League of Ireland, 16 points off leaders Shamrock Rovers, face bottom side Cork City on Friday night, before their crucial Champions League qualifying double-header against Linfield, at home on Wednesday 9th July and away on Wednesday 16th July.

O’Brien said: “This is an incredible honour, of course being honest it was unexpected, not something I was thinking about. The opportunity came up, and I was asked to take it. I didn’t take long to say yes, I’m obviously delighted to be given the chance and grateful for the trust shown in me by the owners and the board.

"It’s a privilege to be given this chance to continue the work that’s been done over the last few years."