O’Brien urges Shelbourne to make history as they kick off their Champions League qualifying journey against Linfield tonight, aiming to create a memorable European chapter for the club and themselves. Joey O’Brien, who has stepped into the manager role after Damien Duff, is ready to guide the League of Ireland champions into a new era, drawing on his own European experience with Bolton Wanderers and Shamrock Rovers.
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A Manager Who Knows European Nights
Joey O’Brien understands the magic of European nights, having played in the UEFA Cup with Bolton and across multiple European campaigns with Shamrock Rovers. Now, as a manager, he is eager to see Shelbourne embrace the challenge and make a mark on the European stage. A victory over Linfield across two legs would secure at least €2 million for the club and push them into the next round of Champions League qualifying, with the potential for more European football ahead.
The Importance of Winning on Big Nights
For O’Brien, these European games stand out above regular league matches. “They’re the games you look back on and remember,” he said, emphasizing the need for his players to seize the moment. He wants his team to put in a strong performance, attack the game with confidence, and showcase their talent to everyone watching.
Financial and Sporting Rewards at Stake
The match carries significant financial weight for Shelbourne, and advancing in the competition would not only bring in crucial funds but also boost their chances of reaching the group stages of European football. Whether it leads to further Champions League games or other European competitions, the benefits are clear, and O’Brien is confident in his team’s ability to handle the expectations.
No Pressure, Just Enjoyment
O’Brien has stressed to his players that this should not feel like pressure but rather an exciting opportunity. “These are the games you want to play,” he said, pointing out how European matches break the routine of facing familiar league opponents. Playing different teams and experiencing European competition brings a unique excitement that sticks with players long after their careers.
Ready to Attack and Win
O’Brien is clear about the approach: Shelbourne will go out to attack the game and play to win, just as they do in every match at home. He is eager to see his players step up and deliver on the big stage, believing that if they give their best, the result will follow. “It’s over to the lads now,” he said, looking forward to watching his players take their chance to make history for Shelbourne.
