Villarreal to hold training camp in Ireland

TOP La Liga side Villarreal are to follow the example of Real Madrid last year and hold their pre-season training camp in Ireland, later this month.

The camp is being organised by Platinum One – who masterminded last year’s Real visit – and will see the Spanish giants play against Athlone Town and another, as yet unnamed, opponent.

Villarreal – 7th in Spain last year – will arrive in Ireland on July 22 and will be located at Carton House, Maynooth, Co. Kildare until July 28.

The first of the two games will take place on Saturday July 24 at 7pm. Details of ticket are available online at www.platinumonegroup.com and www.athlonetownfc.ie.

Villarreal manager Juan Carlos Garrido said: “We saw last summer with Shamrock Rovers’ performance against Real Madrid just how competitive Irish sides can be so we must prepare for what will be a stern test of my squad.

“I am sure it will be a great spectacle for all the fans.”