Pessoa runs the

MICHAEL DUFFY is among a five-man squad named for the opening leg of the European Division 1 FEI Nations Cup which kicks off at Lummen in Belgium later this month.

Although it is not a point-scoring show in this lucrative series, it will give Rodrigo Pessoa ( pictured) an opportunity to see some of his riders in action as he settles into his new role as Irish showjumping team manager.

The former Olympic champion succeeded outgoing manager Robert Splaine last month after the Corkman served 11 years at the helm.

Also named in the squad is Richard Howley (Chinook), Paul Kennedy (Cartown Danger), Dermott Lennon (Loughview Lou-Lou) and Denis Lynch (Echo De Laubry).

The appointment of Pessoa has been largely welcomed by riders, and Duffy said that exciting times lay ahead. “It will be great to work with a rider and trainer of such high calibre,” he said.

Speaking after his appointment, Pessoa said: “I am looking forward to working with this very talented group of riders and horses in the near future. At the end of August we have the European Championships in Sweden where we want