Sean Russell Retires from Football

Former Limerick FC midfielder Sean Russell has been forced to retire from football at just 26 years of age following a serious cruciate ligament injury suffered whilst playing for the Shannonsiders last March.

Russell had re-invented himself as an amateur player with the club at the beginning of the 2019 season and had been enjoying a prolonged run in the starting 11 as Limerick attempted to reach the First Division play-offs. Russell suffered the injury during the 2-0 home victory over Athlone Town.

It had been expected that he would miss the rest of the season but the reaily was much worse. Unfortunately, the former UCD midfielder received no support from Limerick FC due to the club’s financial issues which led to senior players voting in favour of strike action.

Russell voiced his dismay in both local and national media circles at the lack of financial support from the club for the necessary operations to aid his recovery. The Dublin native claimed that Limerick owner Pat O’Sullivan had sent two cheques on the morning that the operation was due to take place and that one of the cheques for over €4000 had bounced.

Although the club were pushed for a statement on the issue, one was never forthcoming and the player was forced to pay for the costs himself. It raised a number of issues and Limerick FC received a public backlash due to the treatment of the player.

A statement released by the player on social media said;

“I’ve always dreaded the Day I’d have to stop playing football, just never taught it would come so soon. My health physically and mentally needs to take priority and unfortunately il be unable to continue playing the game I love.I am grateful for the people I met and experiences I had.

Iv met some amazing people and lived the dream⚽️ I look forward to staying involved in the game what ever way I can.”

Russell lined out for a number of Airtricity League clubs during his eight year senior career including UCD, Galway United and Limerick FC and is the son of former Limerick and UCD manager Martin Russell.