Shelbourne

Reasons To Adopt

Shelbourne work as a second team because they come with their own geography: Republic of Ireland, Tolka Park, and a set of rivalries you will absorb faster than you expect.

• The calendar you inherit

  Following Republic of Ireland Premier Division means odd kick-off hours, a new commentary language and a table you will check before your own club's. Republic of Ireland becomes part of your week.

• Deep roots

  Founded in 1895, Shelbourne were playing organised football before floodlights, substitutes or televised highlights existed. You are adopting 131 years of accumulated grudges.

• Nothing won, everything to play for

  No major honours on record, which means every cup run is uncharted territory and every promotion feels like a coronation.

• Close to the pitch

  Tolka Park holds about 6,450. You can hear the defenders shouting at each other, which is the single best argument for lower-capacity football.