O'Neill itching for season to start
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Shamrock Rovers manager Michael O'Neill cannot wait for the new season to kick off as European football awaits the Dublin club.
The Hoops have been training at Carton House during pre-season, but got a taste of some competitive action when they beat Longford Town 4-0 in a friendly on Tuesday (February 2nd).
During that outing O'Neill was able to select new signings Enda Stevens, James Chambers, Craig Walsh, Billy Dennehy, while goalkeeper Paul Murphy and striker Declan Edwards were handed opportunities to impress.
O'Neill was pleased with how the game went, but admits that he is already looking forward to the new season starting as he is excited about the chance of guiding his team through the Europa League qualifiers.
"It was a good workout in Longford and the players are keen to get out on the pitch in Tallaght in front of our own supporters," said O'Neill.
"The pre-season has been excellent so far. Our stint at Carton House was very worthwhile as the facilities there are ideal. We just need a few games to get everyone match fit.
"We've strengthened the squad and everyone's eager to get going. Last season was a learning curve for everyone at Rovers and we're determined to progress.
"There's also European football to look forward to, as we're playing in the Europa League. It's a very exciting time for the club and its supporters and we can't wait for the start of the season."
The Hoops have been training at Carton House during pre-season, but got a taste of some competitive action when they beat Longford Town 4-0 in a friendly on Tuesday (February 2nd).
During that outing O'Neill was able to select new signings Enda Stevens, James Chambers, Craig Walsh, Billy Dennehy, while goalkeeper Paul Murphy and striker Declan Edwards were handed opportunities to impress.
O'Neill was pleased with how the game went, but admits that he is already looking forward to the new season starting as he is excited about the chance of guiding his team through the Europa League qualifiers.
"It was a good workout in Longford and the players are keen to get out on the pitch in Tallaght in front of our own supporters," said O'Neill.
"The pre-season has been excellent so far. Our stint at Carton House was very worthwhile as the facilities there are ideal. We just need a few games to get everyone match fit.
"We've strengthened the squad and everyone's eager to get going. Last season was a learning curve for everyone at Rovers and we're determined to progress.
"There's also European football to look forward to, as we're playing in the Europa League. It's a very exciting time for the club and its supporters and we can't wait for the start of the season."
