Cork City manager Dunne: happy to re-sign former captain |
Tommy Dunne said that player numbers are tight for the 2012 season; with a squad of 18/19 (maximum); including three goalkeepers. He said that having only 16 outfield players wasn't ideal but that that was what he had to deal with for this season. The manager also confirmed that some players would be coming through from the Under-19's. I mentioned to him a few potential signings, including two former City players Joe Gamble and Denis Behan. I imagined that the two might be interested in returning to Leeside (particularly Cork native Joe Gamble) now that City have returned to the top flight, but the boss confirmed that the two are under contract at First Division Limerick, so have not been spoken to. The manager also mentioned former City star (and Ireland international) Colin Healy, but that after talks with the player, the Ballincollig native is going to try to get a club in England having been released by Ipswich Town before Christmas. The manager confirmed also that Title winning star Graham Cummins is under contract for the new season.
Dunne wishes all LoI managers good luck for new season |
Asked for his expectations for the 2012 season; Tommy Dunne said that the Premier Division would be a big step up from the First Division and that a top six finish would represent a "fantastic season" for the club. "We are hoping to conduct ourselves properly in the top flight but we know that it's going to be really tough because all clubs will start the season hoping to be in the division for the following season." Dunne also said that the club would do everything they can to win a trophy in the new season but that the league would remain the priority. When asked if he'd like to wish former foe Roddy Collins "Good luck" for the new season (!) Dunne chuckled before adding: "I'd like to wish all managers 'good luck' for the new season but hope that they finish behind Cork City." A wise answer from a wise football man.