Damien Duff quits as Shelbourne manager just 24 hours before key league clash
Duff's resignation also comes just two weeks ahead of Shelbourne's crucial Champions League qualifier against Linfield. It is understood that players were informed of his decision during a meeting on Sunday morning.
The club, who currently sit sixth in the table and trail Shamrock Rovers by 15 points, confirmed the news in a statement released on Sunday. Damien Duff has made a shock exit from his role as manager of League of Ireland champions Shelbourne, just a day before the club's Premier Division clash with Waterford. Pic: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile
Duff, a former Republic of Ireland international, took over at Tolka Park in 2022 in what was his first senior management role. Under his leadership, Shelbourne ended Shamrock Rovers' dominance last season by claiming their first league title in 18 years.
However, they have struggled to replicate that form this season, and suffered a 1-0 defeat to Derry City on Friday night.
In a statement, Shelbourne paid tribute to Duff's contribution over his four-year tenure: 'While all at Shelbourne FC are deeply saddened by Damien's decision, we fully respect that he feels this is the right choice for him at this time. Duff, a former Republic of Ireland international, took over at Tolka Park in 2022 in what was his first senior management role. Pic: INPHO/Tom Maher
'During his four extraordinary years at Tolka Park, Damien transformed Shelbourne Football Club both on and off the pitch.
'Appointed in November 2021, he took over a newly promoted side and rebuilt it from the ground up. Duff guided Shels to a seventh-place finish and a first FAI Cup Final appearance since 2011 in that debut season.
'The following year, in 2023, a fourth-place finish brought the Reds back to European competition for the first time in 18 years.
'In 2024, Duff led the Reds to one of the greatest triumphs in the club's 130-year history, clinching the League of Ireland Premier Division.
'The club wishes Damien and his family every happiness and success in the future. His impact on Shelbourne FC was transformational. He will always be one of our own, and we are eternally grateful for the indelible mark he has left on our club.'
Shelbourne also confirmed that assistant coach Joey O'Brien and the existing coaching staff will lead the team for Monday's trip to the RSC to face Waterford, and prepare for Friday's fixture away to Galway United.
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