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Shane Duffy has paid tribute to her father Brian, who died at age 53.
Brian, a native of Ard O’Donnell in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, died suddenly at his home in Derry.
Paying tribute to his father on social media, Republic of Ireland star Duffy said: “You were not just my father, you were my hero, my idol.
“I will miss calling you after the game and telling me how damned I was.
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“Daddy, I love you and I miss you. Take care of us all now.
“Every time I wear that green shirt for our country, I will think of you because I know how proud you were [of] me playing for Ireland! I love you and miss you.”
(Image: © INPHO / Tommy Dickson)
Brian had three children, Shane, who plays for Brighton in the Premier League, Tony, and his daughter Nicola. He is also survived by his wife, Siobhan, sisters Jackie and Michelle, and brother Mark.
He traveled the world to see his son play for the Boys in Green.
Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny sent his support and sympathy to the Duffy family.
He said, “Our thoughts are with Shane and his family at this very sad time. Brian was very proud of his son, a proud soccer fan and a great defender of the Foyle Harps club in Derry, where Shane played his minor soccer alongside Patrick McEleney and where Paddy McCourt learned the game.
“My own son Eoin played for Harps until two years ago and I know how central to the Galliagh community is the club. Brian’s loss will be felt by everyone at Foyle Harps and Galliagh, but none of us can understand what Shane and his family are going through now. We can only offer our support and sympathy. “
(Image: Mandatory Credit © INPHO / Ryan Byrne)
FAI Acting Executive Vice President Niall Quinn commented: “Losing a father at any time is heartbreaking, but losing Brian at just 53 is a tragedy for Shane and his family. We can only imagine the pain they are going through now and I am sure I speak for everyone involved in Irish football when I offer our condolences to Shane and the Duffy family in Derry and Donegal. “
FAI President Gerry McAnaney added: “On behalf of the Irish Football Association, I offer our condolences to Shane and his family for the loss of Brian at such a young age. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Shane, her mother Siobhan, her brother Tony, their daughter Nicola, and the extended Duffy family. May Brian rest in peace.
Several footballers from the past and present also paid tribute to Brian as they sent their condolences to his family.
Robbie Keane said, “I’m sorry to hear that Shane, I’m thinking of you and the family.”
Paul McGrath commented: “Sorry for your loss, Shane, condolences to the whole family. RIP Brian.”
Former English boxer Tony Bellew added: “Thinking of you fellow Duffer … the thoughts are with you.”
Former Everton forward Victor Anichebe posted: “My condolences go out to you and your family, my brother. Praying for you and your family, may your soul rest in peace.”
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