Hoops off to India

Shamrock Rovers will head to India next month to take part in the Sait Negjee Tournament as part of their pre season preparations. The competition will kick of on 2 February taking place in the city of Kozhikode in the south-west of India.

Eight teams will take part in this compeititon, playing in two groups before a semi-final and final; Argentina U23s, India U23, Hertha Berlin, 1860 Munich, Atletico Parananense of Brazil, Romanian side Rapid Bucharest and Watford U21s make up the rest of the teams involved.

Hoops Manager Pat Fenlon said while the players were shocked at the news, they are looking forward to it. “It’s a prestigious tournament to be invited to and it will be a great help to us in our pre-season preparations," said Fenlon speaking to the Irish Sun.

“I think the players were a bit shocked when we told them but they’re excited about it and I’m delighted with it. It’s a gift for the club because it’s not costing us anything. We wouldn’t be able to afford this ourselves but it will be a great experience for us.

“You’re going to be playing against good quality opposition and that’s going to be a real help in terms of getting ready for the season ahead."

The tournament was one of the most prestigious events in Indian football since it began in 1952 but was last played in 1995. This year’s tournament is the beginning of what the organisers hope to resume as an annual event.