Breslin suits the Saints’ style of play

ANTO BRESLIN still has his suit from the 2021 FAI Cup final but he’s not worn it since then.

That day, Breslin, a Bohemians regular for most of the season, didn’t fit in to the team selected by Keith Long.

Whether his imminent move to St Patrick’s Athletic was the reason is a matter for debate, but Breslin isn’t one for raking up the past.

‘Keith picked a team he felt was the best to beat Pat’s on the day. And you can’t go against the manager’s decision,’ he said. Ironically, after being left out of a

Bohs Cup final XI, he is now looking to put one over them today.

At 26, Breslin is a senior player in a youthful Saints squad.

Their attack relies on Conor Carty, 21, Tommy Lonergan, 19, and Mason Melia, 16 – the latter signed his first pro contract this week.

‘These young lads are built different, they take everything in their stride. They’ll have no fear getting on the ball. Mason has been excellent, way beyond his years. He’s got the potential to be anything he wants,’ said Breslin, left. ‘He’s built like a man, trains like a man, and has a great head on his shoulders. He’s similar to Sam.’

Sam is Sam Curtis, only 17, yet a stalwart of over 60 first team games for the Saints and an Irish U21 regular.

‘Brexit has probably been the best thing for him, in that he couldn’t away go so young.

‘A 17-year-old kid playing in the league is crazy. He’s been excellent at left wing-back, right wing-back, centre half, he’s so versatile.’

This could be Curtis’s final game as a Saint as he turns 18 next month and could go to England.

‘He’s aware there’s a bit of noise but we make sure he isn’t too big for his boots,’ said Breslin.