Good news for Martin O'Neill could be just around the corner, as there may be another Irish goalkeeper playing Premier League football next season.
Birmingham City have confirmed on their official club site that goalkeeper Darren Randolph will be leaving the club this summer, after establishing himself as first choice keeper and playing 46 times for the Blues last season.
Randolph will be available on a bosman after deciding not to accept an offer of a contract extension from Birmingham, and discussions with a Premier League club are cited as the main reason for this decision.
The Irish international was offered a new contract by Blues, but following lengthy negotiations he has declined it and is believed to be finalising a move to a Premier League side as a Bosman free agent.
This would be welcome news for Ireland fans, as currently only Shay Given is plying his trade in the top flight of English football. Birmingham manager Gary Rowett took the opportunity to wish Randolph well wherever he ends up:
Unfortunately Darren has informed us he will be leaving and naturally we are sorry to see him go. He has been an excellent player for us, an integral part of the team that finished tenth this season.
Success breeds success and players do get other opportunities put before them which they feel they have to take. Darren leaves with our very best wishes and our thanks for his contribution.
Let's hope he gets a chance to earn a starting role in the Premier League next season.
via BCFC.com
