Dundalk hit by injury blow

Dundalk FC received a huge blow on Tuesday evening with the news that goalkeeper Aaron Shanahan will miss the remainder of the season through injury. Shanahan had been struggling to recover from the knock which he sustained away to Sporting Fingal at the beginning of the month, with scan results yesterday revealing the club’s worst fears as it was confirmed that the 23-year-old has suffered cartilage damage.
 
With 18-year-old local netminder Donal Greene the only available back-up to Chris Bennion for manager John Gill, Dundalk have confirmed that they will look for special dispensation to bring in another ‘keeper before the transfer window opens in July. However, Gill did confirm last night that should he still be at Oriel Park next year, then so will Shanahan.
 
Speaking to dundalkfc.com, Gill said: “We’ve actually faxed off today to get confirmation to see if we can or not. If we can, I have a goalkeeper in mind, and I have spoken to him – he is a good quality ‘keeper. We will be looking to bring a ‘keeper in, but I would rather have Aaron fit and available. He’s done tremendously well. He’s a great young player. When he came into the side and was called upon, he did his job, and did it manfully. I won’t forget about him, and he’ll be here and be very much part of the group. We’ll get him fit, and if I’m here next year, then Aaron will be as well.
 
“It’s my job now to try to get another quality ‘keeper in, to push Chris (Bennion) and to make sure we’re well covered in that area. Young Donal Greene is a great prospect, and he will have a part to play in the season as well, but it’s a lot to ask for an 18-year-old to cover under the pressure games that are coming up. But, if we have to use him, then we will, but I would like to bring another ‘keeper, a more experienced one, in.”