Why Ireland football legend Damien Duff walked out on his team

Last weekend, former Ireland international and premier league star Damien Duff sent shock waves through Irish football when he announced he was resigning as manager of Shelbourne FC.

In a statement, the Tolka Park club said it was “regretfully” announcing Duff’s departure.

“While all at Shelbourne FC are deeply saddened by Damien’s decision, we fully respect that he feels this is the right choice for him at this time,” it said in a statement.

“His impact on Shelbourne FC was transformational ... we are eternally grateful for the indelible mark he has left on our club,” said the club.

Duff steps away from the club four and a half years after taking on the managerial role. During that time, he rebuilt the north Dublin club and delivered last season’s League of Ireland Premier Division title – its first since 2006.

Duff will also be a huge loss to the League of Ireland having built a new legacy for himself as the man who helped to transform the credibility of league.

Why did he suddenly leave and what does it mean for the future of Shelbourne FC? And what about the ongoing revival of League of Ireland football?

Today, on In The News, why did Damien Duff walk out on Shels?

Irish Times sports writer Malachy Clerkin discusses the fallout from Duff’s decision to step down.

Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Declan Conlon. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.