Damien Duff commits future to Shelbourne as club confirm departure of Acun Ilicali

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Premier Division high-flyers Shelbourne have confirmed that manager Damien Duff has committed his future to the Reds. 

The former Ireland international and Chelsea winger’s contract extension comes amid news that their Turkish majority shareholder Acun Ilicali has also departed the club.

As a result, long-time supporters and shareholder Mickey O’Rourke has acquired the club from Icali - without having to repay the investment put into them by Acun Media. 

“This is a very exciting day for Shelbourne FC, which brings a re-alignment of the ambitious plans we have set out for the club,” O’Rourke said. 

“It is up to us now, as a group of shareholders, staff members, volunteers and most importantly our fans, to continue our trajectory and bring this club back to where it belongs, the top of Irish football.”

But fans will be pleased that Duff has extended his stay at the club.

Duff led Shels to a fourth-place league finish this season, giving them a chance to qualify for European football if St Patrick’s Athletic win the FAI Cup final on Sunday. 

Duff’s backroom staff of Joey O’Brien, David McAllister, Paul Skinner, Mauro Martins and Mark Cornish have also put pen to paper on new contracts with the club.

“Shelbourne FC, born in 1895 is a Dublin Institution,” Duff said. 

“It is built on hard work, respect, humility and honesty. This can never be lost. See you in Tolka soon, Up the Reds.”



 

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