Tributes paid to former Ireland youth international Eamonn Dolan

The FAI has paid its respects to the family of Eamonn Dolan, who sadly passed away yesterday after a battle with cancer.

Mr Dolan, 48, was a former Ireland youth and U21 international and was well known to the football community in his role as Academy Manager of Reading FC.

It is with the most profound sadness that we announce Eamonn Dolan has passed away, aged 48. https://t.co/OzSi3riRpD pic.twitter.com/xj7FEPJYhx

— Reading FC (@ReadingFC) June 21, 2016

The British club confirmed the news of his death this afternoon and have opened a book of condolence in his honour.

Eamonn played alongside his twin brother Patrick for Ireland’s youth teams under Liam Tuohy and played for West Ham United, Bristol City, Birmingham City and Exeter City. He managed Exeter City briefly and had a spell as caretaker boss of Reading.

Everyone at West Ham United has been saddened by the passing of Academy graduate and former player Eamonn Dolan 1/3 pic.twitter.com/l5816aSO27

— West Ham United (@WestHam) June 21, 2016

“Eamonn Dolan was a real gentleman and fought a courageous battle against cancer in recent years. It is such sad news to hear of his passing,” said FAI Chief Executive John Delaney.

“The sympathies of all in Irish football go to Eamonn’s family, his brother Patrick in particular, and his many friends in the game who will be very upset at his untimely death.

“We will rightly pay tribute to Eamonn at our next home international game. May he rest in peace.”

Tributes have been paid to the popular manager since the news was announced.

Absolutely heartbroken about Eamonn Dolan. Nobody deserves to die at the young age of 48, least of all him. Such a huge loss.

— ry (@RyanWaddy) June 21, 2016

RIP Eamonn Dolan my old team mate at Exeter lost his fight against cancer, you will be sadly missed xx

— Dave Cooper (@coopsie1973) June 21, 2016

Eamonn Dolan, a kind hearted man who helped me a lot during my short stay at reading.My condolences to his family.May he rest in peace.🌹👼🏼

— Nathaniel Chalobah (@chalobah) June 21, 2016

Such sad news about Eamonn Dolan, a truly talented footballing man. Thoughts go out to his friends and family. #RIP #readingfc

— Phil Rushton (@PhilTheRush) June 21, 2016