Two of the region’s footballing talents have received glowing endorsements this week, with Shelbourne manager Damien Duff lauding the contribution of Paulstown’s John Martin and former Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper Barry Murphy hailing Carlow’s Pádraig Amond as one of the best in the league.
Martin’s Commitment and Quality Recognised
Shelbourne’s title-winning success last season was built on resilience and key moments, and few players embodied that more than John Martin. The 26-year-old played a vital role in Shels’ championship-winning campaign, scoring four crucial goals to help them lift the league trophy. He has since continued to impress, featuring in both of Shelbourne’s matches this season.
His manager, Damien Duff, had strong praise for Martin’s work ethic and mentality.
“Just the honesty of him. I remember going up to his parents after we won the league and his girlfriend just saying how proud they should be of him. So it’s a pleasure to work with him from that side. And then obviously the quality side—he’s a player that can play numerous positions. He would run through a brick wall for you and also he scores important goals.”
Duff also credited Martin’s mental toughness, agreeing with KCLR Sports Oisin Langan when he describe Martin as a mentality monster.”
“The goals that he scored last season, if he didn’t score them, we wouldn’t have won the league. He brings a lot of quality. The 5% of footballers take up 95% of your time. He doesn’t take up any of my time. He just gets on with his hard work. Yes, he had an injury, he knuckled down, and now he’s back on the pitch. He’s a brilliant man.”
Amond’s Enduring Quality Shines at Waterford
Carlow’s Pádraig Amond continues to prove his class in the League of Ireland. After being named in the PFAI Team of the Season last year, Amond has taken on an even greater leadership role this season as captain of Waterford FC.
As Waterford prepares to take on Derry City this Friday night, Amond’s former teammate at Shamrock Rovers, Barry Murphy, has highlighted just why he remains such an integral player.
“He still looks like he’s a spring chicken as well. He’s got those rosy cheeks that he always had when he first came up to Shamrock Rovers as a youngster. And even back then, the manager used to tell him, ‘Listen, you’re working too hard. You’re just doing your work away from the goal where you need to be.’”
Murphy acknowledged how Amond refined his game over the years, making a name for himself in England before returning to Ireland to continue his goal-scoring exploits.
“He’s got so many goals over in England. He made a really good career over there. And he’s returned here and done the same again. So there are still plenty of years left in him as well. And as a goal poacher, those are the exact kind of players you need in this league.”
With Martin continuing to shine for Shelbourne and Amond leading Waterford from the front, local football fans have plenty to be proud of as these two talents continue to make their mark on the League of Ireland.
