James McClean hails ‘box office’ Damien Duff’s decision to stay at Shels

Duff penned a new deal with the Reds earlier today, understood to be for two-and-a-half years, as the league leaders target a first title since 2006 this term, while they are also preparing for European football for the first time in 18 years as they enter Conference League qualifying in three weeks’ time.

Reacting to today’s news, McClean feels it's brilliant for the League of Ireland and hailed Duff’s skills as a coach, having worked with him in the Ireland set-up.

“It’s brilliant. What he has done with that Shelbourne team has been absolutely sensational,” said McClean on RTÉ.

“He’s got a real connection with the club. Obviously with me being a Derry boy and a Derry fan, I obviously hope they fall short (this year), but there is no denying he is absolutely brilliant for the league. He’s box office as well.

“I was lucky enough to have a few (Ireland) camps with Duffer as a coach. You could just see how passionate he is in taking sessions, in trying to develop players and helping them become better.

“He knows the game inside out. It’s a benefit to Shels and unfortunately, it’s not to the rest of the league!"

Shay Given also welcomed Duff’s new deal at Tolka Park, having played alongside him 78 times for Ireland, as well as being teammates together at Newcastle for three seasons.

“It’s brilliant for the League of Ireland because he has got that profile,” said Given of his fellow Irish centurion.

“Even (people in) England are speaking about the League of Ireland now because Damien Duff is one of the managers. It’s great news for Shelbourne.”

“This contract just puts in writing what everyone knew anyway. His commitment to the club is complete,” added Richie Sadlier, who won several Ireland underage caps alongside Duff.

“He has no aspirations at the moment of leaving this country, you can link him with whatever jobs you want, he’s not looking for anything else.

“He is fully committed to Shelbourne so it’s no surprise to me he has signed the contract. It’s very pleasing for Shels fans, maybe not so good for the other clubs because I think a lot of the clubs are starting to see, the way Shels is run, there might be a bit of money coming in and with Duff leading the thing, they are in a position of real strength now to go on and start competing.

“Shamrock Rovers have had the run of things for the last few years, it looks like Shels are now a credible contender.”

Elsewhere, Derry City have confirmed that defender Cameron McJannet has departed the club to sign for League Two Grimsby Town.

The 25-year-old arrived at the Candystripes from Stoke City in 2020 and went on to make 145 appearances for Ruadhrí Higgins’ side, scoring 11 goals, two of which came in their 2022 FAI Cup final victory over Shelbourne.

“On behalf of everyone at the club we want to thank him for his efforts at Derry City and wish him well in his career going forward,” said Derry City this evening.

Grimsby finished 21st in League Two last season, four points above the relegation zone.

“We’re delighted with the acquisition of Cameron. It’s taken a while to get there, and we thank Derry for their cooperation,” said Mariners boss David Artell.

“I went to see him over in Ireland and he’s the profile we’re after. He’s dominant in the air, he’s got an excellent range of passing, he makes good decisions, and he can cover left-back if required.”