By Fionn Teague
Shelbourne FC are looking for a new manager following Damien Duff’s resignation on Sunday.
The ex-Ireland international took the job as head coach of Shels in November 2021.
During his time at the club, he helped the 14 time champions of Ireland climb the table and eventually win their first league title since 2006 last season.
Despite this recent success, Damian Duff has not been able to keep Shels in the title race this season. They currently sit fifth in the table.
After a recent loss to Dublin rivals Shamrock Rovers, the club released a statement later that week announcing he had stepped down as Shelbourne boss
He gave very little reason as to why but did say: “The biggest thing to take away was (a lack of) quality, quality, quality, absolutely zero energy, flatness.’’
Duff made his thoughts on the players very clear when he said: “Did I smell it on Thursday? Of course! It (training) was awful.
“It all comes from within, your energy, your motivation, how good a professional you are.
‘’I don’t accept that that’s our third game in a week.
“Never have, never will until the day I die.
“If you are an amazing pro you bounce into the night.
“Even if you are a bit tired, a bit flat, drag yourself along, give yourself a talking to.
“That’s where you have to be an amazing pro, an elite pro, a pro that belongs in the Champions League which are strange words for me to say at the minute.”
Since his departure there have been rumours circulating of him going to England to join the Brentford coaching staff alongside Kieth Andrews
As for Shelbourne, they are set to face Linfield in their first round of UCL qualifying on the July 9.
Many fans are wondering if they can find a new manager in time who is ready for the challenge.
Interim manager Joey O’Brien refuses to answer questions on if he will be taking over from Damien Duff.
O’Brien was Duff’s assistant from the beginning of his appointment.
He got a 2-2 result against Waterford in his first game in charge despite having little time to prepare.
Apparently, Joey O Brien was as oblivious to Duff’s decision as the rest of us were.
“I was shocked and stunned as much as the whole football club was,” he said following the match against Waterford.
“There was a job to do, we get paid, and we’re the luckiest people in the world for the jobs that we have.”