Karl Sheppard will be wearing two hats going into FAI Cup first round action tonight.
The Cork City striker is also the Avondale United boss and both teams have away trips this evening.
The Rebels have a tricky tie against First Division surprise package Cabinteely at Stradbrook.
And Avondale will be rank outsiders when they face Drogheda United at United Park.
Sheppard was appointed to the Avondale hot-seat only last month and will leave his assistants Damien Roddis and Robbie Sullivan in charge.
Sheppard told Mirror Sport yesterday: “It’s early days for me but I’m loving it so far. I was appointed last month and it’s been great.
“As a player, you’re used to having everything laid out for you and all the sessions are ready to go when you arrive.
“You’re giving out about this, that and the other and you probably don’t appreciate the effort that has gone into it from the coaches.
“Now I’m seeing it from the other side and I’m learning a lot. With Cork City, I train in the morning and I’m finished by lunchtime.
“You would hear about a lot of footballers not having things to do for the rest of the day so this has been nice for me.
“Avondale train twice a week and then we’ve a match at the weekend, so there’s been no crossover and it’s been fine to manage.”
When the FAI Cup first round draw was made, there was initial talk of the Cork City game being played on the Sunday - but that was switched to Friday.
“It’s a shame the two games clash,” said Sheppard. “But after our own game I’ll be straight on the phone to see how the lads get on in Drogheda.
“Avondale are massive underdogs and we’re up against it. We’re in pre-season and we’re still trying to put our stamp on the team, but we’ve done our homework on them.”
Sheppard added: “It would be great if both Cork City and Avondale make it to the next round, but I’m not sure what I’d do if they were drawn together!
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