SPECULATION AROUND KARL Sheppard’s future remains after Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny refused to deny his interest.
The ex-Galway United, Shamrock Rovers and Reading forward has been a key player for Cork City in recent years — particularly since Sean Maguire’s departure for Preston North End as they clinched a third top flight title in the club’s history.
However, after three fruitful seasons on Leeside, Sheppard is being linked with a winter move to their main rivals. Ahead of this weekend’s FAI Cup final between the pair, City boss John Caulfield wouldn’t be drawn on the rumours, while his opposite number didn’t rule out the possibility of signing the Dubliner yesterday.
“I’m not going to put him in an awkward situation but it’s not something I’m going to deny either at this stage,” replied Kenny, when asked about the 26-year-old. “I’m not going to lie to you.”
Meanwhile, Kenny hasn’t given up hope of keeping defender Niclas Vemmelund just yet. The Danish defender has proved a hit since arriving from Derry City in January, but told Dundalk newspaper The Argus this week that the cup final will be his last game for the Lilywhites as he plans to move closer to his homeland.
“You never know with these things,” said Kenny. “Obviously, Denmark is his home and he’s got his girlfriend over there. These things are all factors. Home is calling for him, so we’ll have to see. I haven’t written it off.”
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