Quinn’s goal is to help young soccer players who fail to shine in Britain

SOCCER star Niall Quinn is no stranger to heading balls into the back of the net. But now he hopes he and others who’ve played leading roles in sport can provide a safety net for young Irish footballers who don’t make the cut and return empty-handed from Britain.

The former soccer international says far too many set out on the glory path, signing up with clubs in Britain at 15 or 16 years of age, only to be dropped after three or four years with no education or alternative plan.

“Certain safeguards need to be brought in for young players. Nine out of 10 are home before they have developed as people,” Quinn said, as he was welcomed onto the Irish Sports Council in Kilkenny.