Keane says O’Connor the perfect role model for budding pros

ROY Keane says Cork-born youngster Shane O’Connor is an example to any player looking to make their way in professional football.

After being released by Liverpool, O’Connor pestered Keane into offering him a trial at Ipswich Town and has continued to impress his manager.

The 20-year-old made his second league start of the season last week as Keane’s side ended a six-game league losing streak with a 3-0 victory over Leicester in the snow, O’Connor creating the third goal.

Keane says the progress of his fellow Corkman, who plays at either left-back or in midfield, shows the value of persistence.

“Shane’s story is a good one for a lot of young players trying to get in the game and make a living out of it.

“He came in here on trial 18 months ago and he’s now played 15 or so league games for us and will probably get some more over Christmas. It’s a good reflection on the boy,” he said.

O’Connor, who was called into the Irish U21 squad earlier this season but had to pull out with a hamstring injury, kept on at Keane for a trial during the summer of 2009.

His persistence won him a one-year deal and then after breaking into the first team, he signed a new two-year contract with Keane a fan of his determination.

“What I like about Shane is that he persevered with me. He pestered me, although I’d use a different word beginning with P as well!” he joked.

O’Connor, like Keane a one-time Rockmount youngster, made most of his early appearances at left-back but his manager says he’s now more in his thoughts as a midfielder playing ahead of former Ireland international Mark Kennedy.

“We weren’t sure about him at left-back because of his lack of experience and because teams were targeting the far post against his height.

“Shane’s been caught out once or twice but in terms of playing ahead of an experienced left-back, I think he might give us something.”

Prior to a busy festive programme which sees Ipswich face Watford on St Stephen’s Day, then Doncaster, Coventry and Nottingham Forest in the space of nine days, O’Connor and the rest of Keane’s players are being given Christmas Day with their families.

“We’re doing nothing with the players Christmas Day,” said the former Ireland skipper. “You’ve got to trust the players and how they behave, not with alcohol but how much they eat and what kinds of food they’re eating, particularly with plenty of treats around at Christmas.

“Hopefully they’ll appreciate being at home with their families, particularly the lads who have got younger kids.

“We shouldn’t forget what Christmas is all about, it’s supposed to be enjoyed and celebrated and the players will do that. They’ll train today (Thursday) and Friday, so they won’t be slacking off on that side of it.”

A nutritionist made what is a regular visit to the training ground yesterday to advise about diet, although the Blues manager isn’t too concerned about the traditional Christmas meal itself.

“Christmas dinner’s fine, you’re having that about two or three o’clock. What we don’t want them having is turkey sandwiches late into the evening.

“I wouldn’t begrudge them their Christmas dinner, it’s more about how many selection boxes they might possibly eat!

“Did I ever eat something or drink something I shouldn’t have? Maybe so, I don’t remember. My memory’s going!”

Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Keane already has definite plans with adding goals to his 17th-placed Championship side his priority.

“I think we need players. We need more strength in depth, probably need more experience and we need one or two more attacking players. That’s my wish-list for Christmas.”