Lorcan Fitzgerald appointed U20s manager | OneFootball

Shelbourne Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Lorcan Fitzgerald as manager of our Men’s EA Sports U20s League of Ireland team.

A highly regarded young coach, the Dubliner spent last season as first team coach at Bray Wanderers, having come in initially as assistant manager to Ian Ryan, before a spell in caretaker charge following Ryan’s departure.

The former defender helped guide the Seagulls to the promotion/relegation playoff before departing the Carlisle Grounds. He began his coaching career at Wexford FC following a successful playing career at the top level of domestic football.

Lorcan is no stranger to Shelbourne supporters, having had two spells at Tolka Park as a player. The left-back made a lasting impression during his second stint at the Reds, captaining Shels to promotion in 2019, scoring a decisive goal in the 3-1 win over Drogheda United, in a night that will be forever fondly remembered by Shels fans. His leadership on and off the pitch earned him the respect of teammates, coaches and supporters during his time at Shels.

Since hanging up his boots, Fitzgerald has transitioned seamlessly into coaching, bringing the same attention to detail, professionalism and passion he displayed as a player. His arrival to the Shels academy to take the reins of this critical age group is a significant boost to the club as we look to bring through the next generation of footballing talent to the first team.

Speaking on his appointment, Lorcan said: “I’m delighted to be back. The club’s success last season, both at first team and academy level excites me and offers me the chance to learn and work with the best in the business. I’ve had the privilege to play in front of a packed Tolka Park many times during my career and I want to help the next generation experience that atmosphere and success.”

Luke Byrne, Shelbourne FC Technical Director said: “It’s amazing news that we are bringing Lorcan back to the club. I played with him and he was my captain so I know all about his leadership qualities and the standards he demands from those in his dressing room. He has been working very hard the past few years to become the best coach he can and has been building a very good reputation. It’s a massive statement that we have attracted a first division manager to our U20’s and he will be fundamental in the promotion of academy players to our First team squad.”

Colm Barron, Shelbourne FC Academy Director said: “Lorcan taking the U20s forward is a really important appointment for the Academy. The experience he has gained both as a manager and as a coach at first team level will only benefit our young players. He will add significant value to what we want to achieve as a club and will further complement the brilliant work being done by the coaches within the Academy.”

Fitzgerald‘s U20 side will represent the Reds in the Leinster Senior Cup this season, with their first game taking place in the AUL on January 14th at 7:45pm.