Joey O'Brien has joined the Ireland U17s coaching staff for the September international window following his departure from Shelbourne. The former manager left Tolka Park in June after a year in charge and is now undertaking his professional coaching licence.
O'Brien will work under manager John Cotter and alongside coach Mark Connors for the upcoming U17 World Cup preparations. His involvement is initially a short-term arrangement covering the September window, with his participation in November's tournament in Qatar yet to be confirmed. The Football Association of Ireland's Technical Officer, Shane Robinson, confirmed the appointment to The 42 this week. Robinson highlighted O'Brien's playing pedigree as a key factor. "He’s played for his country, unbelievable experience as a player first and foremost," Robinson said.
The Ireland U17s face a challenging group at the World Cup, drawn alongside Brazil, Tanzania and Costa Rica. O'Brien's experience, gained during a difficult spell at Shelbourne, is seen as a valuable addition to the underage set-up. Robinson also emphasised the personal qualities O'Brien brings to the role. "And we want people to influence our players as well for who they are, an unbelievable guy."
O'Brien's exit from Shelbourne came after a disappointing run of results ended his tenure. He had succeeded Damien Duff as manager in June 2025 but departed exactly a year later. His departure preceded a period of solid, if unspectacular, form for the Reds. Shelbourne currently sit 5th in the Premier Division with 36 points from 28 games, having scored 37 goals and conceded 39. Their recent form shows a team that is hard to beat, with five consecutive draws in the league.
That unbeaten run of five games includes a 0-0 draw away to league leaders Shamrock Rovers on September 4th. The result leaves Shelbourne 20 points behind Rovers in the title race, but firmly in the mix for European qualification. The team's defensive resilience has been a feature, though converting draws into wins remains the next challenge.
Shelbourne's focus now shifts to an important home fixture against Derry City on September 11th. Derry are one place below them in 6th, making it a key match in the battle for top-half positioning. The full schedule of upcoming games is available on our fixtures page. Managerial changes are part of football's cycle, and the club has maintained stability on the pitch during this period of transition.
Their goal difference of -2 reflects the tight nature of many of their matches this season. O'Brien's move into international coaching allows him to continue his development while Shelbourne concentrate on their domestic campaign. The club will look to build on their recent solid form and turn those draws into victories.
Joey O'Brien begins his work with the Ireland U17s as Shelbourne prepare to host Derry City this Friday.
