DEAL AT HOOPS

DAVE WEBSTER turned down offers in Northern Ireland to stay with Shamrock Rovers, insisting the Hoops can be a force again.

While Dundalk fly out to Israel today ahead of their final game of a remarkable year on Thursday, Rovers are already building towards next season.

Stephen Bradley’s charges returned to pre-season training last Thursday, with gym programmes already underway ahead of a proper slog in January.

And Webster hopes it stands to the Hoops as he knows every effort has to be made in attempting to reel in the Lilywhites. It’s the earliest pre-season of my career and maybe that’s a signal of intent from the coaching staff, to get a headstart on the competition,” he said.

“It’s strange to be in pre-season when Dundalk are still in their season. They’ve done wonders the last couple of years.

“Hopefully they can get through in the Europa League, it would be good for Irish football if they succeed.

“Us coming in early, it’s a signal that we want to close the gap and have a big push next year.”