At a special reception held this evening in Parliament Buildings, Minister Campbell acknowledged the achievements of the team over the years including winning their third successive Irish League title in April this year.
He said: “Since their formation in 1886 Linfield has won the Premiership title an impressive 48 times and the Irish Cup a record 39 times. More recently, the team has won their third successive League and Cup double, the first time this feat has been achieved in British football since 1891-93 when it was accomplished by none other than – Linfield!”
The Minister continued: “The team’s success on the pitch would not be possible without the support of backroom staff and club administrators who vigorously work to ensure Linfield maintain their position as Northern Ireland’s most dominant club side.”
The Minister commended Linfield for working closely with the IFA and its Community relations team in being pro-active in combating racism and sectarianism in the local game. He continued by recognising the excellent quality of players that Linfield has produced over the years such as Alf McMichael, Tommy ‘the Duke of Windsor’ Dickson and more recently Glenn Ferguson and Noel Bailie.
The Minister concluded: “At Linfield the desire to win is paramount. Not only for the senior squad but at all levels. This was ably demonstrated in the success of the under 13 team winning the Tesco Cup in May this year. Success breeds success and certainly no other football team in Northern Ireland has achieved the levels of success enjoyed by Linfield.”
Notes to Editors:
- Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure Press Office. Tel (028) 9025 8901 or email press.office@dcalni.gov.uk
- Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
