Jack Byrne eyeing a good end to season on two fronts with Shamrock Rovers

After an injury-affected season, Jack Byrne is now looking forward to playing in some big games for Shamrock Rovers - both in the Conference League and the Premier Division - where in the latter he's not giving up hope the club can retain their title.

The competitive year for Stephen Bradley's side will end when they take on Chelsea in their concluding Conference League tie on 19 December. All told it will be a ten-month campaign for the Hoops.

Byrne missed the first quarter of the season with a calf injury but has gradually worked his way back to full fitness. In recent weeks, we've seen more than a few glimpses of the control and composure the midfielder can bring to a game.

On Thursday evening, one of Byrne's former clubs, APOEL Nicosia, are in Tallaght as the Premier Division champions eye a good start to their latest extended run in Europe.

And then on Sunday, Shelbourne will head to D24 for another crunch game in the domestic title race. Leaders Shels have a five-point advantage over their South Dublin rivals, who currently occupy third spot.

For Byrne, it's a case of relishing the busy schedule to come.

Speaking to RTÉ Sport's Tony O'Donoghue on the eve of the APOEL clash, he said: "I'm looking forward to it; hopefully will get the minutes and keep building it up. We have a big game Sunday, then the international break, and yet more big games after that until the end of the season.

"It's great to be involved personally, great to be able to put myself in a position that I can have a good end to the season; the extra six games in Europe has been a blessing and hopefully I will get many minutes."

Of course, being involved in the champions path was key for the Hoops having a long run in Europe, and so underlines the