Shels’ fabulous Baker boy

CHAMPIONS and table-toppers Shelbourne picked up another honour yesterday when Richie Baker was named the eircom/Soccer Writers Association of Ireland Player of the Month for April.

With six goals since the start of the season, 25-year-old Baker has emerged as one of Shelbourne’s star players since rejoining the club after a season in the USA during which he helped the New England Revolution reach the Major League play-offs.

Reflecting on the value of his American experience, Baker said: “The players at the club were brilliant and being around them helped me out a lot. Facilities were good too, we had everything you need to help a player develop. But now I’m just happy to be home. Shels have a lot going for them here as well. A lot of the players are new but they’ve slotted in well. The training’s been great, my fitness has been improving with every game and I’ve been in the right places to score goals.”