FOUR-YEAR-OLD Cian Prendergast of London Ireland Supporters Club is among a selection of fans to be presented with a commemorative plaque at this week’s World Cup Qualifier against Georgia at the Aviva Stadium.
The UEFA Executive Committee have decided to give an award to the Republic of Ireland for the outstanding contribution of their supporters in making Euro 2016 a success, with an array of hand-picked fans set to accept the accolade.
Cian and his father Martin, who will also attend the presentation, are both members of London Ireland Supporters Club and regularly travel from London to Ireland games home and abroad, including the Euros.
A video of London-born youngster Cian belting out Amhrán na bhFiann in the Stade de France ahead of Ireland’s Euro 2016 opener against Sweden went viral online during the summer.
“He is really excited and hopes to meet Shane Long, his favourite player,” Cian’s father Martin told The Irish Post.
“He’s been singing the ‘Shane Long’s on fire’ song ever since we told him of the invitation. He thinks he will score and Ireland will beat Georgia.
“Thanks to the FAI, John Delaney and Gerry Reardon for thinking of the young supporters who are the future of Ireland’s support and I hope more young people will be able to attend domestic and international games to get behind Irish football.”
Football Association of Ireland CEO, John Delaney, hailed the impact of Republic supporters made at Euro 2016 ahead of this week’s presentation.
He said: “The supporters selected to receive the award are perfect ambassadors and I look forward to the ceremony at the Aviva Stadium.”
Watch Cian’s memorable effort at Amhrán na bhFiann below
@JOEdotie Cian 4 singing Irish Anthem Ireland Sweden pic.twitter.com/UgyZyN5l0r
— Martin Prendergast (@PrendyM) June 14, 2016
