Cork City manager Danny Murphy has spoken perfect sense on the transfer saga regarding Ireland international Abbie Larkin.
The talented 17-year-old had been the subject of transfer speculation after an impressive season for Shelbourne that saw them win the league and FAI Cup double.
Despite Abbie Larkin being the subject of moves away from the club, Shelbourne were confident of Abbie Larkin staying with the Dublin side.
However, in what seems to be a change of heart for her according to the club, She will now sign for Shamrock Rovers ahead of the new season.
Shelbourne released a statement earlier today expressing their disappointment with the move.
Abbie had initially indicated her intention to remain with the club and, on the 9th of December, Shelbourne FC made an announcement that she would be staying. Naturally, the club is disappointed at this change of heart but we ultimately respect that it is the player’s decision to make.
“We thank Abbie for her time at the club, during which she was part of a team that won two league titles and the FAI Cup.
“She was also capped at Senior International level for the Republic of Ireland and has come to the attention of several English WSL clubs."
They didn't stop there however, as they faced huge backlash online for a now deleted tweet that was posted this morning that said "Though cowards flinch and traitors sneer, we'll keep the red flag flying here".
It's unclear what was meant by the tweet, but the club faced backlash as people believed it was related Abbie Larkin's move.
The Independent had contacted Shelbourne for a comment on the issue, but have reportedly declined.
Stephanie Roche and Áine O Gorman are just two of the big names that will be part of the side after their seven year absence. There has also been reports of other Shelbourne players set to join Shamrock Rovers, including goalkeeper Amanda Budden and defender Shauna Fox.
In what must be a difficult and complicated situation for a 17-year-old, Cork City manager Danny Murphy perfectly summed it up in his tweet earlier today.
In his tweet he criticised the way people have spoke about Larkin, especially given her age.
Disappointing to see how people are talking about a 17 year old footballer Can't imagine they would be making a decision on their own. I would be disappointed personally if it was done to me as a manager, if it wasn't done the right way.
I've been a player and fully understand you don't have a long career and need to make what you can for the short space of time you play.
It all comes down to your personally loyalty to a club and where you think you will best improve as a individual. But people need to understand this player is still a child and will not be making these decision on their own and will be influenced by others to move clubs."
— Danny Murphy (@dan03murphy) December 21, 2022
With all the controversy over the last 24 hours, it's refreshing to hear some sense spoke on the issue. For Abbie Larkin, this is a huge opportunity, as she will be aiming to be on Vera Pauw's plane to Australia next summer.
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