Chris Shields named SWAI POTM for October

Dundalk midfielder Chris Shields has picked up the SSE Airtricity/Soccer Writers’ Association of Ireland Player of the Month for October.

Shields, who has been a true stalwart at the heart of the Lilywhites midfield throughout their Europa League adventure and their successful Premier Division campaign held off competition from fellow Lilywhites Ronan Finn and the latest player to be called up to Martin O’Neill’s Ireland squad Andy Boyle to win the award.

Shortly after the announcement, Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny revealed his delight for his midfield general.

“It's brilliant, I'm delighted for him,” insisted Kenny.

 “He has good values, he wants to train well and is a great professional.”

Shields, who is one of few names left at Oriel Park from the pre-Kenny era, helps bring the Dundalk players and supporters together according to his manager.

“Our supporters can relate to Chris Shields, fellas who give everything of themselves,” he added.

“Chris would play on one leg. He just wants to play. If he's bruised or battered he just wants to play. What you see is what you get. He's a very good footballer as well.

“From that point of views his values are, he has a level of passion where he'll tell you what he thinks, he'll fall out with you but he's give you everything. For him, it's been a bigger journey again.”

Shields becomes the fifth Dundalk player to pick up the award in 2016, following in the footsteps of David McMillan, Robbie Benson, Ronan Finn and Daryl Horgan.