by Staff Writer
Monday, 23rd June 2025
West Ham United has been well regarded as a breeding ground for managers over the decades.
Since the likes of Malcolm Allison, John Lyall and John Bond moved from the players' roster to managerial roles in the 1960s, east London has proved a fertile spot for recruiting talented, new head coaches.
And the latest former Hammers to make his first, tentative steps into management is none other than full back Joey O'Brien, who spent five seasons on West Ham's books between 2011 and 2016.
The five-times-capped Republic of Ireland international also represented Bolton Wanderers, Sheffield Wednesday and Shamrock Rovers during a 17-year professional career before joining League of Ireland Premier Division outfit Shelbourne as assistant manager four years ago.
And yesterday the popular O'Brien, now 39, was announced as the Irish club's new interim manager in the wake of former boss Damian Duff's surprise resignation.
"The club wishes Damien and his family every happiness and success in the future," read a club statement released on Sunday. "His impact on Shelbourne FC was transformational. He will always be one of our own, and we are eternally grateful for the indelible mark he has left on our club.
O'Brien accepts the 'Most Memorable Match' award from KUMB Editor Graeme Howlett in 2014 on behalf of his team mates
"Joey O’Brien and the coaching staff will take charge for tomorrow’s trip to the RSC to face Waterford and will prepare the team for Friday’s fixture against Galway United."
One of his first tasks will be to prepare his squad for a huge Champions League qualifier against Northern Irish side Linfield - the first leg of which takes place on 9 July at Tolka Park with the return leg seven days later at Windsor Park.
The all-Ireland tie could be worth several millions to the winner, which would provide a huge boost to either club. However prior to that, and as stated above, O'Brien will open his managerial account with a League of Ireland encounter away to Waterford later today (Monday).
And just four days later Shelbourne - who have struggled to recapture previous good form in the league this season - face a tricky trip to Galway United.
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