Scully pledges future to Hoops
Pat Scully has pledged his future to Shamrock Rovers while also announcing several new arrivals and contract extensions as the Hoops begin their 2007 pre-season.
Danny O’Connor signed from Longford Town before Christmas and he’s been joined by Barry Ferguson (from Bohemians), Tommy Barrett and Robbie Kelleher (Limerick) and Stephen O’Brien (Bohemians).
O'Brien comes primarily as the club's new goalkeeping coach, but he has also signed as a player to provide experienced cover for the Hoops' highly-regarded custodian, Barry Murphy.
Scully agreed a three-year extension to his contract, reflecting a successful debut season when he guided the club to the 2006 First Division title and the FAI Cup semi-finals.
The Hoops won the First Division, gained promotion to the new FAI Premier League, and at the club AGM yesterday announced an annual profit of just over €20,000 to members.
''I'm very pleased and honoured that the board has shown such faith in me,'' says Scully. ''The most important thing for me is respect - and I've got that at Shamrock Rovers.
''The board and myself want the club run properly and going in the right direction, and that attitude is reflected in the players who are coming in and already at the club.
''I'm absolutely delighted with the signings we've made. These players come to Rovers with a lot to offer - but they've also come because they believe in what we're building here.''
Barry Ferguson, who became one of the eircom League's top defenders during a hugely successful time at Longford Town, arrives at Rovers following a year at Bohemians.
Rovers won the First Division title with an incredible 23 clean sheets in their 36 games, and the addition of Ferguson further strengthens an already impressive rearguard.
''I've always admired Barry,'' says Scully. ''And he came because of the club. He's bought into what we're doing: he wants to play for Shamrock Rovers, and help build the club up.''
Both midfielder Tommy Barrett and striker Robbie Kelleher arrive from Lmerick and Scully believes that the duo have what it takes to impress in the Premier Division, which begins in March.
''They are two players I know very well from my time in the First Division at Kilkenny City and Rovers,'' says the Hoops' boss. ''They're definitely good enough to step up a level.
''When people talk about centre forwards, they should look at Robbie Kelleher. He's got fantastic ability. And Tom Barrett has been the best midfielder in the First Division for years.''
Stephen O'Brien comes to Rovers with 20 years of professional football experience behind him. His primary role is as goalkeeping coach, but will also provide cover for Barry Murphy.
Says Scully: ''Stephen's a very intelligent goalkeeper and a good pro, so he'll make sure that our goalkeepers develop good habits. He's a valuable addition to the squad.
''We brought Stephen in to replace Paul Fagan - who I'd like to thank for his contribution - because he wasn't able to commit to the level required this year.''
Meanwhile, Rovers have also signed three-year extension deals to keep captain Aidan Price, goalkeeper Barry Murphy, and defender Ger O'Brien at the club until 2010.
''I feel really positive about next season,'' says Scully. ''Last year was great for the fans - but it's history and I'm focused on the future. I want Rovers back at the pinnacle of Irish football, and will do everything to make that happen.
''We now have a fine blend of youth and experience,'' he adds. ''The best core group of young players in the league can only benefit from working with experienced professionals.
"Obviously it’s a step up for us after a year in the First Division, but I’ve every confidence that we’ve now got a squad at Rovers that can compete at the highest level."
