Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Vincent Whelan

'It’s a really exciting challenge for me' - Shane Duffy delighted with Fulham loan move

Republic of Ireland centre-back Shane Duffy has joined Premier League newcomers Fulham on a season-long loan.

It should be a beneficial move for Duffy and Ireland as he'll compete against Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo for a starting berth.

Speaking to FFCtv, the 30-year-old said: “I’m delighted. It’s a really exciting challenge for me and the Club, one I’m really looking forward to.

READ MORE: Roy Keane explains X-rated reaction to being booed at Croke Park by Dublin fans

“A couple of days ago I got a call and I’m here. I didn’t really have time to think about it all. But as soon as they came in for me I knew it was right for me.

“I spoke to the gaffer and he set out all his plans and targets for me and the squad. It was a really positive talk.

“I’ve played against Fulham a lot over the years and it’s a really big club. Last year in the Championship they were the best team and there have been good signings this season.

“I’ve had a good pre-season with Brighton and I want to thank them for giving me the opportunity to come here and try to play games.

“I’ve improved a lot over the years. I’m an experienced centre-half. I’ll put my life on the line for the team. I’ve a big heart and I’ll leave everything on the pitch.”

Fulham owner Tony Khan added: “Shane Duffy is a player with extensive experience in international football and in the Premier League. We’re very pleased that Shane is joining us on loan for this season.

“He’s a formidable and talented defender, and we expect that he’ll be a great fit in Marco’s squad. Come on Fulham!”

The towering defender rebounded well last season from his disastrous loan stint at Celtic in 2020/21.

Upon his return to parent club Brighton, he knuckled down and regained his form which saw him line out 18 times in the league along with a further two appearances in cup competitions.

However, he did drop down the pecking order towards the end of the 2021/22 campaign so this is a logical step given the stage of his career he's at.

That he'll still be playing Premier League football means it's about as good an outcome as he could've hoped for.

READ NEXT:

Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.