Shelbourne manager John Russell is optimistic about his team's chances in the UEFA Conference League playoffs, where they face Ajax with a 3-1 deficit from the first leg. The Dublin club will need to overturn the deficit to qualify for the final knockout round. Russell highlighted the importance of a strong home crowd in the second leg at Tolka Park, believing their support can provide a significant advantage. He praised Daniel Kelly's second-half goal, which he described as a result of 22 passes, as a turning point in the match. Russell emphasized his desire for his team to be a passing, attacking side and expressed confidence in their ability to perform well in front of the home fans. He also drew on his experience from his time at Sligo Rovers, where an early goal from Shane Blaney against Motherwell in the second leg of a previous match provided a psychological boost. Russell's approach is to attack the game and try to secure results, regardless of the opposition.