Former Maidstone United midfielder Sam Bone speaks about his move to League of Ireland leaders Shelbourne and playing for ex-Chelsea star Damien Duff

Sam Bone can hardly believe his luck as he prepares to return to Ireland.

Bone, 25, was unsure what the future held after the surprise of being released by hometown club Maidstone.

But he finds himself challenging for a title and playing in Europe after sealing a move to Shelbourne.

He’s signed an 18-month deal, with the option of an extra year, at the League of Ireland leaders who are managed by ex-Chelsea winger Damien Duff.

Duff, who won two Premier League titles under Jose Mourinho, had made Bone aware of his interest.

And when the midfielder, with nothing taking his fancy in England, followed up on it, a deal was done.

Bone previously spent six years in Ireland, winning the FAI Cup with St Patrick’s in 2021.

His first club over there were Shamrock Rovers, which is where he initially met former Ireland star Duff.

“I couldn’t ask for more,” said Bone as he gets ready to return to Dublin. “I’d spoken to a few teams in the off-season and nothing really excited me.

“I got in contact with Damien and it was the first time I said to myself, ‘Do you know what, I fancy doing this’ and it all happened so quickly.

“He sold me his ideas and within a couple of days it was all sorted.

“I hadn’t thought about going back to Ireland at first.

“If I’m honest, it came as a bit of a shock to be released.

“I wanted to stay at Maidstone and just be at home.

“When I got released, it was what do I do now?

“I didn’t want to play against Maidstone, which I know sounds cliched but I genuinely didn’t.

“Once Shels came about, they’re top of the table and playing in Europe, I thought it was the perfect time to go back.

“Football’s a strange old game. I say it all the time but as one door closes, another one opens.

“All the worry I maybe had about