WE RESPECT OUR ELDERS
Griffin reveals secret to Cork’s success in bringing through young defensive talent
SHANE GRIFFIN reckons the kids will be alright – thanks to the Cork City old guard.
At 23, Griffin is the eldest of the trio of young men who have helped shore up the Leesiders’ defence this season.
Conor Mccarthy is the youngest at 20 while Sean Mcloughlin, 21, earned high praise from City boss John Caulfield for his performance against Legia Warsaw in the Europa League at Turner’s Cross last Tuesday.
All three were making their debuts in Europe as the Rebels battled to an honourable 1-0 defeat to the Polish giants.
“Yeah it’s brilliant, it’s a credit to all the training staff here,” said Griffin.
“It is a step up from what we’re used to but the three of us probably found the League of Ireland a step up from what we were previously playing in. So it’s all about progression.
He added: “I loved everything about last week, from the build-up to the game and the massive atmosphere, it was definitely a level up, the way they moved the ball and got into position, their movement.
“We made them dig deep and they came through, but we’ll go again over there and try to get something from it.
“It’s very promising that we did carve out chances. If we can keep it tight next week and try to get something off a break or a set-piece, we can still do it. This tie is definitely not dead at all.”
Griffin signed for the Leesiders after failing to make the breakthrough to first team football at Reading. And the Cork man feels he is in the perfect place to continue his footballing education.
Former Ireland and Crystal Palace centre-half Damien Delaney made his City return after 18 years away in last week’s game.
The veteran came into the side because another former international, Alan Bennett, missed out.
Griffin said: “A few months ago, Damien was training with a Premier League team and playing there.
“So it’s unbelievable, really, to have a player coming in straight from that environment and you can see the good habits he brings with him, the good leadership.
“He pulled me already, after only a week or two, to give me advice and I know he’s done the same with a lot of other lads.
“He’d be looking at how I could position myself better, be more compact, how to work on shape. It has really helped.
“Alan Bennett has been doing that, too, for years and everyone really appreciates what he has brought to it as well. They have been there and done it and they want younger lads to come through and do their bit for the team. It’s brilliant.”