Shelbourne have begun building for their return to the SSE Airtricity First Division. 

The Tolka Park club have snapped up midfielder JJ Lunney and striker Glen McAuley.

Both players spent the 2020 season at Dublin rivals, Bohemians.

22-year old Lunney already has plenty of experience under his belt through two spells at Bohs, one season at Waterford and two years in the Preston North End youth system.

McAuley is still only 20, and has already had spells at St. Patrick's Athletic and Bohemians prior to his move to Shelbourne.

The striker managed just five Premier Division appearances for the Gypsies last term.

Both cited conversations with manager Ian Morris and his new assistant Alan Reynolds as their reasons to move from Phibsborough to Drumcondra.

Lunney told ShelbourneFC.ie he was looking forward to enjoying his football again, adding, "I enjoy playing in a possession based team and from speaking to Ian and Rennie this is something we’re looking to do.

“By no means will it be easy next year but the aim is to get the club back to where it belongs."

McAuley added, "I’m delighted to be on board. Talking to the Ian and Rennie, I could see how they wanted to push the club forward and get it back to where it needs to be.

"I like to play up front and get a few goals. I was over at Liverpool for six years and after coming back to Ireland I’m looking forward to getting my love back for the game and show everyone what I can do."

Their new manager Morris said, "JJ is a fantastic footballer. Comfortable in possession and will create chances.

"He has good experience and still only 22.

"Glen has bundles of ability with an eye for goal. Really exciting young player who needs games.

"We will give him a platform that will allow his ability to flourish."

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