Easy decision for Gamble to join Lims

Joe Gamble spoke to Extratime regarding his new two-and-a-half year deal with Limerick aswell as speaking about his former side Cork and the reasons behind signing for the Blue Revolution down on Shannonside.

Many people would have believed it unrealistic that Limerick would even be in contact with Joe Gamble at this time last year, but given the rapid progression of the club, not many on Shannonside are overly surprised that he has agreed terms with the Blues.

Gamble (29) has represented his country at full international level twice and impressed while over at Hartlepool, as well as pulling the strings in the Cork City midfield prior to that. He did seem uncertain at first, but the Cork native admitted he was surprised: “I’ll be honest, when I spoke with the chairman I didn’t expect much; I thought to myself “Limerick?” but I’ve been really impressed and I didn’t think they were as strong a club as they have shown me. The more and more and more I spoke to them, the more impressed I became. I believe what they are doing is the only way forward; it’s grand having a good first team but you need to build the foundations first. It costs money, it’s a long road, but it’s worth it.

Gamble’s decision to join Limerick was no in no small part down the honesty and determination of Chairman Pat O’Sullivan. Joe acknowledges this. “The chairman here means business and I’m full of admiration for the man. Denis got me to talk to the club, but when I began talking to them, it was the club, and not Denis that convinced me to sign. I think this is the only club in the country that can guarantee me what he’s guaranteeing and he has shown that already. I’m delighted to be part of this club.”

Many speculated that Tommy Dunne’s attitude towards Behan signing for Limerick was a decisive factor in Gamble’s move. He laid these rumours to rest however. ““I know Tommy a long time, he’s a very good manager and a very good coach; his attitude didn’t influence me to come here at all. I spoke to them [Cork]; they gave me a reasonable enough offer, I hope they’re successful but I hope we are as well, which I think we will be.”

The convenience of Limerick was a massive factor in Gamble signing for Limerick also. While Gamble himself in based in Cork, the trek to Shannonside isn’t going to interfere with his personal life. That’s important to Joe. “I was a bit worried alright at signing a part time deal, but it’s my job; I’m not qualified to be anything else. Limerick gave me a good deal, they may be part time, but I do my own training every day, so it’s all the same to me. Dublin was never really an option, I’m living in Cork, I have two small babies and I’m getting married next year, so Limerick is handy, it’s only an hour and a half up the road, so it’s convenient.”

Finally Gamble was asked whether or not first place was too much for the Blues to chase, he responded in a positive manner. “Seven points is nothing, there’s nobody in this division too strong to catch. When I won the league at Cork, we were a long way behind, so a lead, half way through the year means nothing. We still have to play Cork, Monaghan and Shelbourne, so all we can do is be ready.”

Joe Gamble and Denis Behan have now been registered to play with the club but will have to wait to make their debuts for Limerick until they entertain Athlone Town in mid-July due to their impending bye week.