Damien Duff ‘QUITS as Shelbourne manager' just 24 hours before crunch League of Ireland clash after Derry City loss
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His unexpected departure comes just 24 hours before the reigning Premier Division champions face Waterford.
And less than three weeks before they face Linfield in the Champions League qualifiers.
Shels' loss to the Candystripes on Friday night left the holders sixth in the table, 15 points shy of Shamrock Rovers at the top.
Michael Duffy's stunning strike gave Derry all three points at Tolka Park, prompting a
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The former Chelsea and Newcastle United winger said: 'A bad night, a sobering night.
'We didn't deserve anything from it. Huffed, puffed . . .
'Yes, we had some moments in the first half, the second half, but I'd be embarrassed walking home with a point.
'Not that they created a lot. They definitely play with a bit of quality. We certainly didn't.
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'The biggest thing to take away was (a lack of) quality, quality, quality, absolutely zero energy, flatness.
'I don't accept that that's our third game in a week. Never have, never will until the day I die. If you are an amazing pro you bounce into the night.
Damien Duff mercilessly trolled by rival fans over bizarre attempt to go incognito while serving ban
'Even if you are a bit tired, a bit flat, drag yourself along, give yourself a talking-to.
'Here, I don't like being the one shouting and screaming on the sideline . . . 'Duffer's at it again!' That's the energy that I have.
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'I prepared for Friday's game like I was a professional footballer. My wife probably cursed me at times. Three-hour siesta, ate really well, focused my mind.
'There was a severe lack of energy, real flatness, severe lack of quality and you are going to get nowhere.'
Duff has been at the helm at Tolka Park since 2022, leading them to an FAI Cup final in his first season in charge.
He led them to fourth in the Premier Division in 2023 before guiding him to the title outright in 2024 - their first since 2006.
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Damien Duff has stepped down as Shelbourne manager
Credit: Thomas Flinkow/Sportsfile
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