Shelbourne manager John Russell has called for the League Cup to be reinstated to fill the gaps created by international breaks. His comments come as his team prepare to host St Patrick's Athletic, who are playing their first match in 27 days.
Russell said the competition, last played in 2019 before being dropped during the shortened 2020 Covid season, is a missed opportunity for clubs. "I think that's a competition that we definitely miss," he said. "I'd be in favour of the league cup coming back."
He acknowledged the scheduling challenges this year, which saw a new international window in September and October where national teams play four games instead of two. While Shelbourne had back games against Galway United to fill some of the time, Russell suggested that if such long breaks become normal, clubs must adapt. Options could include arranging friendlies with clubs from outside the league.
Focus on the run-in
Russell's immediate focus is on the final three games of the season, starting with the visit of St Patrick's Athletic. The Saints sit third in the Premier Division with 59 points from 33 games, a position they will aim to consolidate in their remaining fixtures. Their last outing was a 2-1 defeat to Russell's Shelbourne side on 16 October, a result that moved the hosts up to fourth.
Despite his team's improved league standing, Russell said a review of the season will take place once it concludes. Discussions about backing in the winter transfer market will follow, with the manager planning to strengthen his squad. He believes the mentality at Shelbourne is to challenge at the top end of the league, and he argued that a spate of injuries in key positions may have cost them a top-three finish.
Saints' return to action
For St Patrick's Athletic, the long break ends with a trip to face a Shelbourne side that has conceded too many goals from set-pieces and struggled with consistent team selection this term. The Saints' own recent form has been strong, with three wins, one draw and one loss in their last five matches. Their next challenge after this game is a trip to face sixth-placed Derry City on 19 October; the last meeting between those sides ended in a 1-1 draw back in August.
Russell admitted the extended layoff for opponents is not ideal but said his team must be ready. He confirmed end-of-season talks will determine the club's direction, with the aim of building a squad capable of sustained challenges. St Patrick's Athletic will look to top scorer Mark Melia, who has 13 goals this season, to make an immediate impact upon their return.
The Saints' last match before the break was a 1-0 win at Sligo Rovers on 19 September, secured by a 74th-minute goal from Aidan Keena.
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