‘Ireland talk just wastes your energy’

DAMIEN DUFF would have no issue if either Anthony Barry or John O’Shea were appointed as Ireland manager.

But the Boys in Green legend is worn out talking about it and would rather shine a light on the League of Ireland.

Bayern Munich coach Barry (right) was on the FAI’s shortlist to succeed Stephen Kenny from the outset, having been on Kenny’s staff for a brief spell.

But he wasn’t interested and will be part of Portugal’s coaching team at the Euro finals this summer.

A report yesterday claimed the FAI have gone back to Barry for a second time, after recent setbacks in finding a manager.

Sources insist Barry is not for turning but quizzed on it, a weary Duff said: “Anthony Barry sounds amazing, I’d love to see him work.

“He looks an amazing coach, he looks to be a proper fella. So, if it’s

Anthony, great, I wish him luck. If it’s John (O’Shea) great, I wish him luck.

“But, here, outside of that, roll on the women’s (international last night). The League of Ireland is the shining light of Irish football.”

Farcical

Shels boss Duff said he wasn’t deflecting from the question but is just fed up giving his thoughts on a farcical managerial hunt that has dragged on for four months.

“You probably think it’s a contradiction but I hate talking. I hate having needless conversations,” he added.

“I’m sure all of you (media) have had needless conversations, it just wastes your energy. It’s a waste of pen and paper, wastes a good League of Ireland story for some s***e.

“That’s why my face dropped when you asked me (about the Ireland manager), I don’t like talking.”