Damien Duff is a fascinating character.
After a fabulous playing career which saw him amass over 100 caps for Ireland, he was brought from Shamrock Rovers to Celtic as he began his coaching career.
Working initially under Brendan Rodgers, he remained on board when Neil Lennon took over, assisting him until 2020 when he returned to Ireland.
He eventually earned his first managerial role at Shelbourne, with the side in the second tier. Three years later, they were crowned Irish champions with Duff at the helm.
It’s quite the story. Duff has made plenty of friends and enemies along the way with his outspoken demeanour – he has now given his first interview since suddenly leaving Shels in June.
Ex-Celtic coach Damien Duff on his coaching disputes
Duff has had his issues with the FAI, and has been scathing of them in the past. He has had to apologise for some of his comments, describing them as ‘disrespectful’ and ‘ridiculous.’
Despite his impressive profile as a manager, you can’t imagine that he’ll be getting offered the Ireland job any time soon.
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Issues with Irish football are well-documented, with the division gradually addressing its struggles to resonate with fans who would rather watch Celtic or a Premier League team.
Duff has been frank in his observations of the Irish game, but remains committed to it. The interview, with the Irish Independent, is quite something.
On the potential of getting the Ireland job and the FAI general, he said: “I honestly wouldn’t know [about the job] until someone asked.
“So I’ve had people wanting to speak to me from England. It’s only when they ask you’re like, eh no. So I honestly couldn’t tell you.
“I have been critical of the FAI, and I’ve obviously gone under the radar, and you’re putting two and two together, or people that don’t do their homework [are putting two and two together] and will think, ‘Oh he’s after the job’.
“But I think it was the start of the season, nine or 10 months ago, I said it to you, I don’t think there was anything to be gained from it.
“I actively stopped [commenting] long time ago. Would I ever apologise or was I wrong?
“Absolutely not. I’ll always fight for what’s best for Irish football. And, that’s what I always felt I was doing.
“What’s best now is for me to shut the f*** up, I guess.”
Celtic’s interests in Damien Duff and Irish football
Dermot Desmond is the obvious link between Celtic and the Irish league.
The Hoops’ principal shareholder also holds a stake in Shamrock Rovers. The likes of Duff, Liam Scales and Johnny Kenny have moved between the two clubs under his watch.
The Hoops have been credited with an interest in Michael Noonan and Mason Melia, among other young players currently playing in the division.
With the League of Ireland slowly gaining a reputation as a development league, expect to see more young players linked with Celtic in the future.
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