Graham Cummins: No downsides for Shels as draw of Damien Duff will worry big guns

When Shels secured promotion back to the top-tier of Irish football last month, I doubt any of the teams competing at the top end in the Premier Division were too concerned by Shels’ instant return, writes Graham Cummins

Forget Duff’s lack of experience as a manager - he has coached at Celtic and the Republic of Ireland senior team, argues Graham Cummins. Picture: INPHO/Evan Treacy

Damien Duff becoming Shelbourne manager would not have been welcome news for other clubs in the Premier Division.

When Shels secured promotion back to the top-tier of Irish football last month, I doubt any of the teams competing at the top end in the Premier Division were too concerned by Shels’ instant return. Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic wouldn’t have seen their Dublin rivals as a real threat — the sides who know they will be facing a relegation battle next season would have been more concerned by Shels’ rise.