Conroy new FAI welfare officer

FORMER Stoke stalwart and Irish international Terry Conroy has been appointed as the new welfare officer for young Irish footballers in Britain.

The appointment was announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin and FAI chief executive John Delaney, with funding for the post to be shared between the department and association.

Conroy will play a critical role in ensuring the welfare needs of these young Irish footballers are met by providing guidance and support to them and their parents.

The minister welcomed the fact that Conroy’s remit would also include older retired players who may have fallen on hard times.

Noting that of the 50 young Irish footballers who on average are contracted to play with British clubs each year, 85% subsequently are released by their clubs, Mr Martin remarked: “Despite the perceived glamour of the life of professional footballers in Britain, – for every successful Irish star, many more do not make it. Terry’s appointment represents a very significant attempt by the Government and the FAI to address this need.”