Father's tribute to soccer player who died after roof fall accident

A 23-year-old soccer international who died at the weekend after falling from a roof has been described by his father as "the…

A 23-year-old soccer international who died at the weekend after falling from a roof has been described by his father as "the soul of everything".

Shane "Mousey" Brennan (23), Newtownforbes, Co Longford, spent the weekend on a life support machine after falling from a roof in a disused school building in the town on Friday night.

Shane achieved sporting distinction for the Irish Technical and Private Colleges soccer team, and was also on the books of Athlone Town. He previously played for Monaghan United and his home club Longford Town.

"I will miss him so much. We travelled the country together. He was the soul of everything," his father John Joe said as neighbours, friends and sporting figures called to the family home.

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"When he was working with me in my painting and decorating business, he was always up for slagging and a bit of crack. He absolutely loved football. As a kid he was always around Longford Town training sessions, and we travelled to England together to see his beloved Aston Villa play."

Mr Brennan, his wife Margaret and brother Stephen (19), a player with Longford Town, all spoke lovingly of Shane, who earned the nickname "Mousey" because of his small stature.

Requiem Mass will take place at 12 noon tomorrow in St Mel's Cathedral, Longford and burial afterwards at Ballymacormack Cemetery, Longford.