Famous Irish Football Players

James McClean is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a winger for EFL League One club Wrexham. He has played for various clubs including Trojans, Institute, Derry City, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, West Bromwich Albion, and Stoke City. McClean has received accolades such as player of the year during his time at Wigan Athletic. He has represented the Republic of Ireland national team at international competitions like the Euro Championships in 2012 and 2016, after receiving clearance to switch from the Northern Ireland under-21 team.

James Patrick McCarthy is a skilled central midfielder playing for Scottish Premiership club Celtic. He began his professional career at Hamilton Academical, making over 100 appearances before moving to Wigan Athletic in 2009. McCarthy later transferred to Everton after winning the FA Cup with Wigan in 2013. Throughout his career, he has faced challenges such as various injuries, including a broken leg in 2018. McCarthy chose to represent the Republic of Ireland at the international level, participating in significant competitions like UEFA Euro 2016.

Paul McGrath is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a defender, primarily as a centre back but also as a defensive midfielder. Widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time, McGrath earned the nickname 'God' during his time at Aston Villa F.C. He had successful stints at Villa and Manchester United, winning the prestigious PFA Players' Player of the Year award. McGrath also played for St Patrick's Athletic, Derby County, and Sheffield United, and represented the Republic of Ireland at major international tournaments.

Richard Dunne is a retired Irish professional footballer and current television pundit for TNT Sports. He played as a centre-back and made 431 Premier League appearances, with 253 for Manchester City. Dunne started his career at Everton and spent nearly a decade at Manchester City before moving to Aston Villa and later Queens Park Rangers. He represented the Republic of Ireland internationally, participating in the 2002 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012. Known for his defensive prowess, Dunne holds records for the most red cards and own goals in the Premier League.

Darren Randolph is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a goalkeeper. He began his career at Charlton Athletic before moving on to play for various clubs including Motherwell, Birmingham City, West Ham United, and Middlesbrough. Randolph has also represented the Republic of Ireland at various levels, making his full international debut in 2012. He has had a successful career, playing regularly for his clubs and representing his country at UEFA Euro 2016.

Robbie Keane is an Irish professional football coach and former player known for his prolific goal-scoring abilities. He had successful stints at clubs like Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, LA Galaxy, and more, scoring a total of 126 Premier League goals for six different clubs. Keane also had a distinguished international career, scoring 68 goals for the Republic of Ireland national team. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant manager for the Ireland senior team and Middlesbrough before becoming the head coach of Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Stephen John Finnan is an Irish former international footballer renowned for his versatile playing career. He excelled as a right back, showcasing his attacking prowess and exceptional crossing ability. Finnan made history by participating in prestigious competitions such as the World Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup, Intertoto Cup, all levels of English league football, and the Football Conference. Notably, he achieved success by winning the 2005 UEFA Champions League Final with Liverpool. His impactful career included representing the Republic of Ireland in 52 internationals, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Damien Duff is an Irish professional football manager and former player. He began his career with Blackburn Rovers, winning the Football League Cup. Later, he joined Chelsea for £17 million, winning two Premier League titles. Duff then played for Newcastle United, winning the UEFA Intertoto Cup. He also played for Fulham in the UEFA Europa League Final. After spells in Australia and Ireland, he retired in 2015. Duff has since pursued coaching, working with various teams including Shamrock Rovers, Celtic, and Republic of Ireland youth teams.

Anthony Stokes is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a striker. He began his career with Arsenal before successful loan spells with Falkirk and moves to Sunderland and Hibernian. Stokes then joined Celtic, where he played regularly and won titles. Following a loan spell at Hibernian, he had stints with Blackburn Rovers, Greek, Iranian, and Turkish clubs before returning to Scotland with Livingston. Stokes also represented the Republic of Ireland at various levels, playing in nine full internationals.

Jonathan Walters is a former professional footballer who played as a forward and is currently the sporting director of Stoke City. He started his senior career at Blackburn Rovers before joining Bolton Wanderers. Walters then played for various clubs on loan, eventually finding regular football at Ipswich Town. He joined Stoke City in 2010, scoring crucial goals, including in the 2011 FA Cup semi-final. Walters represented the Republic of Ireland, scoring important goals during their UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, and received the FAI Senior International Player of the Year award in 2015.

Glenn Whelan is an Irish former professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder for various clubs. He started his career at Manchester City before moving to Sheffield Wednesday, where he won promotion to the Championship. In 2008, he joined Stoke City and helped them gain promotion to the Premier League. Whelan became a regular in the team, making 338 appearances over nine years. He later played for Aston Villa and Hearts before transitioning to a coaching role at Bristol Rovers.

Stephen Ireland is an Irish former professional footballer known for his time at Manchester City, where he emerged as a key player before falling out of favor under new management. He later moved to Aston Villa in a swap deal, had a brief loan spell at Newcastle United, and found success with Stoke City. Ireland's career also included a short stint at Bolton Wanderers before retiring. Despite early international recognition, a dispute with Steve Staunton led to an abrupt end to his Republic of Ireland career.

Roy Keane is a highly successful Irish footballer, coach, and pundit. Known for his aggressive and competitive style of play, he enjoyed a distinguished playing career at clubs such as Manchester United and Celtic, winning numerous major trophies. As captain of Manchester United, he led the team to multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League victory. After retiring as a player, Keane embarked on a managerial career, achieving promotion with Sunderland and holding coaching roles with various clubs and the Republic of Ireland national team. He is also recognized for his work as a studio analyst for British football coverage.

Adam Idah is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a forward for EFL Championship club Norwich City and the Republic of Ireland national team. He has showcased his skills on the field with his goal-scoring abilities and versatility in attack. Idah has earned recognition for his performances, attracting attention for his talent and potential in the football world. With a promising career ahead of him, he continues to make significant contributions to his team and the national squad.

Matthew James Doherty is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatility as a full-back or wing-back. He began his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2010 after spells at Irish club Bohemians, Hibernian, and Bury. Doherty made over 300 appearances for Wolves before moving to Tottenham Hotspur and later Atlético Madrid. He rejoined Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2023. Doherty has also represented the Republic of Ireland at both the U21 and senior levels, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.

Andrew Omobamidele is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a defender for Premier League club Nottingham Forest and the Republic of Ireland national team. He has gained recognition for his strong defensive skills and composure on the field. Omobamidele has been a key player for Nottingham Forest, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different playing styles. His performances have earned him a reputation as a rising star in Irish football, with fans and experts alike praising his potential and promising future in the sport.

Andy Keogh is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a forward for Dianella White Eagles in Western Australia. He began his career in England, featuring for clubs like Wolverhampton Wanderers. In 2014, he joined Perth Glory in Australia, later briefly playing in Thailand for Ratchaburi. Keogh has represented the Republic of Ireland national team, earning thirty caps and scoring two goals. His career has seen him move between different leagues and clubs, showcasing his adaptability and talent as a striker.

Pádraig Amond is an Irish professional footballer known for his striker position in various clubs. He began his career in Ireland with Shamrock Rovers, later moving to Sligo Rovers and then playing for clubs in Portugal and England. Amond excelled at Grimsby Town, scoring 30 league goals in a season, helping the team secure promotion. He later played for Newport County before joining Woking in 2022. Amond has also represented Ireland at the under-21 level, showcasing his talent on the international stage.

Festy Ebosele is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatility in playing as a right-back or right wing-back. He currently showcases his skills at Serie A club Udinese and represents the Republic of Ireland national team. Ebosele's career highlights include demonstrating exceptional defensive abilities and providing offensive support from the right flank. He has proven to be a valuable asset to both his club and national team, contributing significantly to their performances on the field.

Kevin Long is an Irish professional footballer who currently plays for Major League Soccer club Toronto FC and the Republic of Ireland national team. Primarily a centre-back, he is also capable of playing as a full-back. Long started his career at Cork City before transferring to Burnley in 2010. Despite loan spells away from Burnley, he struggled to secure a regular spot in the team. Long later joined Birmingham City before moving to Toronto FC in February 2024.

John Egan is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a centre-back for the Republic of Ireland national team. Beginning at Sunderland, he had loan stints at various clubs before joining Gillingham in 2014, where he quickly made an impact and received accolades. Moving to Brentford in 2016, he assumed the captaincy in his second season. Egan later returned to Sheffield United in 2018, contributing to the team's promotion to the Premier League. He has also represented Ireland at various youth levels before making his senior debut in 2017.

Kwame Ampadu is an Irish football coach and former player known for his role as an assistant coach for Columbus Crew under Wilfried Nancy. With previous experience as an assistant coach for Monaco, Ampadu has a background as a midfielder for clubs such as Arsenal, Swansea City, Leyton Orient, and Exeter City. He has also represented the Republic of Ireland U21 national team. Known for his expertise in coaching and playing at a high level, Ampadu brings a wealth of experience to his current coaching position.

Mick McCarthy is a prominent figure in football, having excelled as both a player and manager. He started his playing career at Barnsley before moving on to clubs like Manchester City, Celtic, and Lyon. As a player, he represented the Republic of Ireland in international competitions. Transitioning to coaching, McCarthy managed various teams including Millwall, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. He achieved success with the Republic of Ireland, notably guiding them to the knockout stage of the 2002 FIFA World Cup. McCarthy also had stints at clubs like APOEL and Cardiff City before his role as head coach of Blackpool. Additionally, he has contributed as a television pundit and commentator for respected media outlets.

Katie McCabe is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a left back for English Women's Super League club Arsenal and captains the Republic of Ireland women's national team. She began her career at Raheny United, winning domestic titles before joining Arsenal in 2015. McCabe has since achieved success with Arsenal, winning the FA Cup, WSL title, and League Cups. She has been recognized for her talent, named in the PFA Team of the Year and awarded Ireland Women's Player of the Year. McCabe is a pivotal figure in Irish women's football.

Harry Arter is a versatile professional footballer specializing as a central or defensive midfielder. Starting his career at Charlton Athletic, he gained experience through loan spells at Staines Town and Welling United before joining Woking. He later moved on to Bournemouth, where he played a key role in the team's promotion to the Championship and subsequently to the Premier League. Arter also represents the Republic of Ireland at the international level, having made his senior debut in 2015 after playing for the nation at younger age groups.

Jonathan Afolabi is an Irish footballer known for his skills as a striker in the Belgian Pro League team Kortrijk. He has played for various clubs throughout his career, including Celtic, Dunfermline Athletic, Dundee, Ayr United, Airdrieonians, and Bohemians. Afolabi's versatility and goal-scoring ability have made him a sought-after player in the league. With a track record of success at multiple clubs, he continues to make a significant impact on the field with his dedication and talent.

Stephanie Roche is an accomplished Irish footballer known for her time playing as a striker for various clubs, including Shamrock Rovers and the Republic of Ireland women's national team. She gained recognition for her impressive goal in the Women's National League, which was a finalist for the FIFA Puskás Award. Throughout her career, Roche has faced challenges such as injuries and illness, but has also enjoyed success on the field. Additionally, she has contributed to football coverage as a television pundit for RTÉ, showcasing her knowledge and passion for the sport.

Stephen Hunt had a successful career as a professional footballer, primarily playing as a winger for several clubs including Crystal Palace, Brentford, Reading, Hull City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Ipswich Town, and Coventry City. He also represented the Republic of Ireland national team, earning 39 caps and scoring one goal. Known for his tenacity and work rate on the pitch, Hunt was a versatile player who made significant contributions to the teams he played for throughout his career.

Fiacre Kelleher is an Irish professional footballer known for his skills as a defender. Currently playing for EFL League Two club Colchester United, Kelleher has showcased his talent on the field through solid defensive play and strategic positioning. With a strong work ethic and dedication to the sport, he has become a valuable asset to his team, contributing to their success in various competitions. Kelleher's consistent performance and commitment to improving his game have earned him recognition as a reliable and dependable player in the football community.

Gavin Bazunu is a talented Irish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Southampton in the Premier League and the Republic of Ireland national team. He began his career at Shamrock Rovers, later moving to Manchester City in 2019. Bazunu gained valuable experience on loan at Rochdale and Portsmouth in subsequent seasons. A skilled player, he made his senior international debut for Ireland in 2021, showcasing his abilities on both the domestic and international stages.

Denis Irwin is an Irish former professional footballer and sports television presenter known for his successful career as a full back from 1983 to 2004. He achieved great success during his time at Manchester United, winning numerous domestic and European trophies, including seven Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. Irwin also played for Leeds United, Oldham Athletic, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. He represented the Republic of Ireland national team 56 times, scoring four goals and participating in the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Liam Miller was an Irish professional footballer who began his career at Celtic before joining Manchester United in 2004. He also played for Leeds United, Sunderland, Queens Park Rangers, Hibernian, Perth Glory, Brisbane Roar, Melbourne City, Cork City, and Wilmington Hammerheads. Miller represented the Republic of Ireland internationally, earning 21 caps and scoring one goal. He tragically passed away in 2018 due to pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication in the world of football.

Liam Brady is a former Irish footballer and pundit who achieved success playing for Arsenal and Juventus, winning various titles. Known for his exceptional left foot and technical skills, he excelled as an attacking midfielder and playmaker. Brady later transitioned to coaching, managing Celtic and Brighton and serving as assistant manager for the Republic of Ireland national team. He also held the role of Head of Youth Development at Arsenal. Brady furthered his career as a television pundit with BBC and RTÉ Sport before announcing his retirement in 2023.

Wes Hoolahan is an Irish professional footballer known for his skills as an attacking midfielder. He has played for several clubs including Shelbourne, Livingston, Blackpool, West Bromwich Albion, Newcastle Jets, and had a successful 10-year stint at Norwich City. Hoolahan was involved in a contested transfer between Livingston and Blackpool in 2007, requiring FIFA mediation. During his time at Norwich, he played over 350 games and earned nicknames like "The Irish Messi" and Wessi. He made his Republic of Ireland senior debut in 2008 and represented his country at UEFA Euro 2016, earning a total of 43 caps and scoring 3 goals.

Gearóid Hegarty is a talented Irish athlete known for his skills in hurling and Gaelic football. He plays as a right wing-forward for St Patrick's at the club level and has represented the Limerick senior hurling team. He has also previously been a member of the Limerick senior football team. With a successful professional career in both sports, Gearóid Hegarty has showcased his versatility and dedication to excelling in the competitive world of Gaelic games.

Joshua Kayode is a professional footballer playing as a forward for Shrewsbury Town, currently on loan from EFL League One club Rotherham United. Born in Nigeria, he represents Ireland at the international level. Kayode has showcased his talent and skills on the field, making significant contributions to his teams. His versatility and goal-scoring ability have made him a valuable asset in the football world. With determination and hard work, Kayode continues to excel and make a name for himself in the sport.

Gary Kelly had a successful professional football career as a right-back or right midfielder, playing exclusively for Leeds United from 1992 to 2007. During this time, he made a remarkable 531 appearances for the club, becoming the only player to achieve over 500 appearances at Leeds outside of Don Revie's era. Kelly's loyalty and consistent performance on the field solidified his status as a key player for Leeds United throughout his career.

Niall John Quinn is an Irish former professional footballer, manager, businessman, and sports television pundit. He had a successful playing career as a striker for Arsenal, Manchester City, and Sunderland, earning 92 caps for the Republic of Ireland and scoring 21 goals. After retiring, he was part of a consortium that bought Sunderland and served as the club's chairman. Quinn also had a stint as manager before transitioning to a role as club director. He currently works as a pundit for Sky Sports.

Shane Long is a retired Irish professional footballer known for his time as a striker. He began his career at Cork City before moving to Reading where he achieved notable successes including scoring crucial goals in key matches. Long went on to play for West Bromwich Albion, Hull City, and Southampton in the Premier League. He holds the record for the fastest goal scored in Premier League history. Long also had a successful international career, earning 88 caps and scoring 17 goals for the Republic of Ireland over 14 years.

Joel Matthew Bagan is a professional footballer who plays for Belgian club Zulte Waregem on loan from Cardiff City. He began his career with Cardiff City before joining Zulte Waregem on loan. Bagan has also represented the Republic of Ireland at the international level. Known for his strong defensive skills and versatility on the field, Bagan continues to impress with his performances in both domestic and international competitions. His dedication and hard work have earned him a respected place in professional football.

James O'Shea is an Irish professional footballer known for his versatility as an attacking midfielder, winger, and striker. He started his career with St Joseph's Boys AFC and later played for clubs such as Bray Wanderers, Galway United, Birmingham City, Middlesbrough, Port Vale, Milton Keynes Dons, Chesterfield, Sheffield United, and Bury. O'Shea has experienced success with various teams, winning titles and earning individual accolades such as being named in the PFA Team of the Year. He currently plays for A-League Men club Brisbane Roar.

Chiedozie Ogbene is an Irish professional footballer known for his skills as a winger. He started his career in Ireland with Cork City and Limerick before joining Brentford in 2018. Ogbene gained experience on loan at Exeter City before moving to Rotherham United in 2019. In 2023, he made another transfer to Luton Town, where he continues to showcase his talent on the field. Ogbene's career trajectory demonstrates his commitment to honing his craft and contributing to the success of his teams.

Colin Anthony Doyle is an Irish professional footballer who serves as a goalkeeper and goalkeeping coach for EFL League Two club Bradford City. He has also played for teams such as Birmingham City, Nottingham Forest, Chester City, Millwall, Coventry City, Blackpool, Heart of Midlothian, and Kilmarnock. With over a decade of experience in professional football, Doyle has earned international caps for the Republic of Ireland at various levels, including the senior national team. He made his full international debut in 2007 against Ecuador.

Kevin Doyle is a former Irish professional footballer who played as a forward. He began his career in Ireland with Wexford F.C., St Patrick's Athletic, and Cork City before moving to English side Reading. He played a key role in Reading's promotion to the Premier League in 2006. Doyle later transferred to Wolverhampton Wanderers for a club record fee and concluded his career in the United States with the Colorado Rapids. He also represented the Republic of Ireland national team, scoring fourteen goals in 62 appearances and participating in UEFA Euro 2012. Doyle later transitioned to a coaching role with the Wexford GAA Under-20s football team.

Ruesha Littlejohn is a versatile professional footballer with a strong presence in the midfield position. She has played for various clubs including Glasgow City, IL Sandviken, Arsenal, Liverpool, London Bees, Leicester City, Birmingham City, Aston Villa, and currently London City Lionesses. Known for her skill and adaptability, she has also represented both Scotland and the Republic of Ireland at the under-19 and senior levels. With a wealth of experience and a successful career, Littlejohn continues to make significant contributions to her teams on the field.

Sarah Rowe is an accomplished triple-code sportswoman with a versatile career spanning association football, ladies' Gaelic football, and women's Australian rules football. She has represented various teams at both national and club levels, showcasing her talent and dedication in each sport. With notable achievements such as winning group stages in international tournaments and securing league/cup doubles at club level, Rowe has established herself as a skilled and versatile athlete capable of excelling in multiple football disciplines.

Michael Obafemi is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a striker for EFL Championship club Burnley and the Republic of Ireland national team. He has showcased his skills and talent on the field, making significant contributions to his team's performance. With his speed, technical abilities, and goal-scoring prowess, he has earned recognition among fans and peers alike. Michael's dedication to the sport and commitment to excellence have solidified his place as a key player in both club and national team competitions.

Conor Noß is a professional footballer known for his skills as a midfielder, currently playing for Austrian Bundesliga club Blau-Weiß Linz. Starting his career in Germany, he later represented the Republic of Ireland at the youth level. With a strong presence on the field, Conor has showcased his talents and versatility as a key player for his club. His dedication and commitment to the sport have earned him recognition and respect among fans and peers alike.

Séamus Coleman is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a right-back for and captains both Premier League club Everton and the Republic of Ireland national team. He began his football career with St Catherine's before joining Sligo Rovers in 2006. Coleman then moved to Everton in 2009 and had a successful loan spell at Blackpool in 2010. With over 400 appearances for Everton, he has been a key player for both club and country, earning numerous international caps and accolades.

Setanta Ó hAilpín is a versatile sportsman who transitioned from playing hurling at the senior level for the Cork county team to becoming a professional Australian rules footballer. Known for his athleticism and skills, he successfully made the switch to a new sport and excelled in the competitive world of Australian rules football. His professional career showcased his adaptability and determination to succeed in different sporting arenas, earning him recognition for his talents and contributions to the game.

Marcus McGuane is an English professional footballer known for his role as a central midfielder for EFL Championship club Oxford United. He has demonstrated his skills and versatility on the field, contributing to the team's performance. With a promising career ahead of him, McGuane continues to showcase his talent and dedication to the sport. His presence on the field adds depth and strength to the team, making him a valuable asset in the competitive world of professional football.

Armstrong Oko-Flex is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a winger for Swiss Super League club FC Zürich and the Republic of Ireland under-21 national team. He has showcased his talent and skill on the field, impressing fans and coaches alike with his speed and agility. Oko-Flex's contributions to both his club and national team have helped elevate their performance, making him a valuable asset in the world of professional football.

Emmanuel Osadebe is an Irish professional footballer known for his role as a midfielder at National League club Forest Green Rovers. With a strong presence on the field, Osadebe showcases exceptional skills and versatility, contributing significantly to his team's performance. His dedication and commitment to the sport have earned him a respected position in the football community. Osadebe's professional career is marked by consistent growth and a passion for the game, making him a valuable asset to Forest Green Rovers.

Cian Hughton is a former professional footballer who played as a defender in the Football League for Lincoln City. He started his career with Tottenham Hotspur and later moved to Lincoln City before joining Birmingham City. Hughton also represented the Republic of Ireland under-21 team in international football. Throughout his professional career, he showcased his skills and dedication on the field, leaving a lasting impact on the clubs he played for and the fans who supported him.

Oliver St. John Gogarty was a multifaceted professional known for his contributions as an Irish poet, author, otolaryngologist, athlete, politician, and conversationalist. He played a significant role in inspiring the character of Buck Mulligan in James Joyce's iconic novel Ulysses. Gogarty's diverse career encompassed literary pursuits, medical expertise, athletic achievements, political involvement, and engaging conversational skills. His legacy as a versatile individual with expertise in various fields continues to be celebrated in Irish cultural and literary circles.

John Patrick is a professional footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Spanish club Getafe CF B. Born in Spain, he has showcased his talents representing the Republic of Ireland at the under-19 level. With a promising career ahead of him, John Patrick continues to impress with his skills on the field, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to the sport. His dedication to the game and passion for football have earned him recognition as a rising talent in the football world.

Darron Gibson is an Irish former professional footballer who primarily played as a midfielder. He started his career with Institute before moving to Manchester United, where he won multiple titles including two League Cups and a Premier League title. After a successful spell at United, he joined Everton before later playing for Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, and Salford City. Gibson was involved in a dispute regarding his international eligibility, ultimately representing the Republic of Ireland at UEFA Euro 2012.

Derrick Shaun Williams is a professional footballer who currently plays as a centre-back for Major League Soccer club Atlanta United FC. He began his career at Aston Villa Academy before moving on to play for Bristol City and Blackburn Rovers in England. Williams has also represented the Republic of Ireland at the international level. With experience in multiple clubs and countries, he brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to his current team, showcasing his talents as a versatile and accomplished defender.

Denise O'Sullivan is an Irish professional footballer known for her impressive career in both domestic and international football. She has played for various clubs, including North Carolina Courage in the NWSL and Glasgow City in the SWPL. O'Sullivan has achieved numerous accolades, such as being named the SWPL Players' Player of the Year and earning MVP awards with North Carolina Courage. She has also represented the Republic of Ireland national team over 100 times and received prestigious honors like FAI Senior International Player of the Year.

Mipo Odubeko is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a forward. He made his professional debut for West Ham United in 2021 and has represented the Republic of Ireland at various youth levels. He has also spent time on loan at Huddersfield Town, Doncaster Rovers, and Port Vale. In the 2023-24 season, he joined Portuguese club Marítimo. With eligibility to play for England and Nigeria, Odubeko has shown versatility and skill on the field, making a name for himself in the football world.

Rianna Jarrett is a talented Irish professional footballer known for her skills as a forward. She currently plays for Wexford Youths in the Irish Women's National League and represents the Republic of Ireland women's national football team. Jarrett has been recognized for her outstanding performance, winning the Women's National League Player of the Season award in both 2018 and 2019. Her prolific goal-scoring abilities and dedication to the sport have solidified her reputation as a key player in Irish women's football.

Gary McCabe is a retired Irish footballer known for his career as a winger. He played for Bray Wanderers, showcasing his skills on the field before retiring. Throughout his professional career, McCabe established himself as a talented player with a strong presence on the pitch. His contributions to the team were notable, and he left a lasting impact on the football community. McCabe's dedication and passion for the sport were evident in his performances, earning him recognition among fans and peers alike.

Con O'Callaghan is a talented Irish sportsperson known for his skills in Gaelic football. He plays for the Dublin county football team and is a dual player for the Cuala club in both football and hurling. O'Callaghan has showcased his abilities as a free-taker, although with Dublin, he is not always required to take free kicks due to the presence of other skilled players on the field. He has also represented his county at inter-county minor level, demonstrating his commitment and passion for the sport.

Aisake Ó hAilpín is a versatile sportsman with a diverse professional background. He started his career playing hurling and Gaelic football in Ireland before transitioning to Australian rules football with the Carlton Football Club. After a successful stint there, he returned to Ireland to play hurling at the inter-county level with Cork. He later rejoined the Australian rules football scene by signing a contract with Maribyrnong Park Football Club, showcasing his skills and adaptability across different sports and leagues.

Ciarán Kilkenny is a talented Irish Gaelic footballer who currently plays for the Dublin county team and also represents his club, Castleknock, as a dual player. In the past, he was associated with the Australian rules football club Hawthorn as a rookie. Kilkenny's skills and success have earned him recognition beyond Ireland, as evidenced by his appearance on an advertising billboard campaign in India. His prowess on the field and versatility as a dual player have solidified his reputation as a standout athlete in the world of Gaelic football.

John Kiely is an accomplished Irish hurling manager with a background as a Gaelic footballer and hurler. He has been serving as the manager of the Limerick senior hurling team since 2016. Kiely began his club career at juvenile and underage levels before excelling as a dual player at senior level for Galbally and Garryspillane teams. Prior to his managerial career, he held a prominent role as the principal of The Abbey secondary school in Tipperary Town.

Ciarán Kilduff is an accomplished Irish footballer known for his role as a striker in the League of Ireland Premier Division. Throughout his career, he has played for seven clubs in the League of Ireland and has made 16 appearances in European competition. Notably, he participated in the Europa League group stages with Shamrock Rovers in 2011, marking a historic achievement for Irish football. Additionally, Kilduff was part of the Dundalk team that reached the Europa League group stages after a successful run in the Champions League play-off round in 2016.

Dessie Farrell is an Irish Gaelic football coach and former player who has had a distinguished career in the sport. He played senior level Gaelic football for the Dublin county team for nearly 15 years, winning numerous titles and accolades. After retiring from county football, he continued playing with his club Na Fianna before transitioning into coaching. Farrell managed the Dublin minor football team and his club's senior team before being appointed as the Dublin senior football team manager in 2019. He also played a key role in founding the Gaelic Players Association, advocating for the rights of inter-county players.

Dane Massey is an Irish former professional footballer known for his role as a defender in League of Ireland Premier Division clubs Bray Wanderers, Dundalk, and Drogheda United, as well as for the Republic of Ireland national futsal team. He made all 14 of his appearances in European competition for Dundalk and was a key player in the team that made history by becoming the first Irish side to reach the play-off round of the UEFA Champions League in August 2016.

David van Zanten is an Irish former professional footballer who primarily played as a right-back. He began his senior career with Celtic before moving on to St Mirren, where he made nearly 200 appearances. Van Zanten also played for other Scottish clubs such as Hibernian, Greenock Morton, and Hamilton Academical. He returned to St Mirren for a second spell, making over 130 appearances. Van Zanten later played for Dumbarton and Airdrieonians, showcasing his experience and versatility in Scottish football.

Paul Osam is an Irish former professional association footballer who has contributed significantly to the sport. Following his successful playing career, he transitioned into media work with TV3, showcasing his knowledge and passion for the game to a wider audience. Through his work both on and off the field, Osam has demonstrated a strong dedication to the sport and a desire to share his expertise with others. His professional journey showcases a commitment to football and a willingness to engage with fans through various platforms.

Olamide Shodipo is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a winger for Liga Portugal 2 club Feirense. He made his first-team debut for Queens Park Rangers in August 2016 and has represented the Republic of Ireland at under-19 and under-21 levels. Shodipo has had loan spells at Port Vale, Colchester United, Oxford United, Sheffield Wednesday, and Lincoln City. He joined Feirense in January 2024 after various loan moves and short-term deals in his career.

Dessie Hutchinson is a versatile athlete who transitioned from professional association football to become a key player for the Waterford hurling team. Starting his career with Brighton & Hove Albion, he later returned to his hometown club Waterford to play in the League of Ireland. Known for his skills as a midfielder or full-back, Hutchinson's journey saw him reach the All-Ireland SHC Final in 2020. His success in both football and hurling showcases his talent and adaptability as a sportsman.

Julie-Ann Russell is a highly accomplished Irish footballer who currently plays for Galway United W.F.C. She has received prestigious accolades such as FAI Senior Women's International Player of the Year and Women's National League Senior Player of the Year. Russell's impressive career includes appearances in three FAI Women's Cup finals with different teams. In addition to her success in football, she has also competed in ladies' Gaelic football at a senior level. Julie-Ann Russell's professional journey is marked by skill, dedication, and versatility in multiple facets of the game.

Karen Duggan is a highly accomplished Irish footballer known for her versatility and skill on the field. She currently plays for Peamount United in the Women's National League, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. With previous experience playing for UCD Waves and the Republic of Ireland women's national football team, Duggan has consistently excelled in her career. Her impressive achievements include multiple selections for the WNL Team of the Season and being named WNL Senior Player of the Season. Additionally, she has showcased her athleticism by playing camogie at various levels.