Doolin hangs up his boots to concentrate on managing UCD

PAUL DOOLIN yesterday finally closed the book on his distinguished career as a player to concentrate on his role as manager of UCD.

The 39-year-old Doolin played senior football for a succession of clubs in the Irish League and the National League over 21 years. He won five league championship titles and seven cup winners’ titles after his introduction to senior football with Bohemians. He subsequently served Shamrock Rovers, Derry City, Portadown and Shelbourne and had second spells with Derry, Shels and Portadown. He joined UCD last season and was registered as player and manager but yesterday admitted the demands of the job meant it was time to stand down as player.

He said: “I’ve enjoyed every minute with all my clubs and it is a bit of a wrench to walk away from playing. That is the best part of football. But UCD deserve my undivided attention as manager and that is what they are going to get.” UCD have made substantial strides under Doolin who took over when they were sliding into relegation country last season. They finished the season in a comfortable mid-table position and tonight they face a huge test with an FAI Carlsberg Cup tie against Bohemians at Dalymount Park.