A man for all seasons

Bill George talks to the versatile John O’Shea on his role for club and country

JOHN O’SHEA yesterday laid claim to being the most versatile player in the Premiership as well as in the Ireland squad when he suggested he would happily play in midfield for country and club.

O’Shea was not being boastful, merely responding to a suggestion that his particular talents were well suited to a role in any of three positions. It was a suggestion that was gleefully grasped by the talented Irishman and one that caused international team manager Brian Kerr to look a little askance at his emerging young star.