Jack Byrne takes the acclaim at PFAI Awards ceremony

Shamrock Rovers midfielder Jack Byrne has been named as the PFAI’s Player of the Year award winner for the 2019 campaign.

Byrne played a pivotal role as the Hoops reached a 75 point tally, coming second to eventual Premier Division winners Dundalk.  

The Republic of Ireland international also helped seal Rovers first FAI Cup in 32 years – with a win over the Lilywhites last Sunday at the Aviva Stadium.

Irish senior boss Mick McCarthy was on hand to present the award to the dynamic playmaker – with the 23-year-old being informed he will feature against New Zealand on Thursday evening.

Elsewhere, Bohemians Daniel Mandroiu was named as the PFAI’s young player of the year after a breakthrough year at Dalymount Park for the Ireland under-21 international.

Rob Manley was crowned as First Division player of the year with 18 goals in all competitions as Cabinteely secured a fairy-tale playoff position at the end of the season.

Vinny Perth was named as the Premier Division manager of the year after leading the Lilywhites to a league and EA Sports Cup double.

Drogheda United’s Tim Clancy was awarded the First Division manager of the year accolade after a sterling effort with the Boynesiders.

Denise O’Sullivan was named as the senior women’s international of the year, with Michelle O’Neill crowed as referee of the year.

Meanwhile, Enda Stevens was also named as the PFAI Overseas Player of the Year.