WATCH: Mick McCarthy speaks about the importance of the Kennedy Cup in UL

Less than 24 hours after his side beat Gibraltor 2-0 in the Aviva stadium, Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy was in Limerick at the opening day of the 2019 Kennedy Cup.

Speaking of the importance of the underage competition, McCarthy said it provides a national platform for young players to impress with a host of current internationals playing in the competition.

“Any of the kids that show up here know that some of the National team have played here and they have the chance to emulate that which is fantastic.”

Limerick have three representatives in the competition in Limerick Desmonds, District and County.

The favourites are once again DDSL who have won the competition a record number of times and McCarthy added that the Dublin’s sides dominance should provide extra motivation to other teams, with competition at this age a positive.

“Everyone wants to win it. There’s a roll of honour on the back of the programme… Kids love being competitive, they love playing against each other and winning cups.”

Watch the interview in full with McCarthy below on our Facebook page.