Lord of the Dance
Roche: 'Focus is on Puskas Award, then I'll decide my future'
Sport

Roche: 'Focus is on Puskas Award, then I'll decide my future'

IRELAND’S Stephanie Roche has revealed that she is yet to make a decision about her future, amidst reports that she has left French club ASPTT Albi.

The 25-year-old returned home to Ireland for the Christmas break, and has been gathering support for her goal that is shortlisted alongside Robin van Persie and James Rodriguez for the Puskas Award.

The winner will be presented with the award at FIFA’s Ballon d’Or ceremony on Monday.

Roche’s press enquiries are looked after by her boyfriend, Dean Zambra, a soccer player for Bray Wanderers, and his television presenter sister, Karla.

"I haven't had any offers or anything. I'm just focusing on the Puskas Award and then I'll decide what I'm going to do with my future," Roche said.

"I haven't got anything like boot deals yet. You never know - something might come through, but I haven't got any sort of sponsorship or deals just yet.

"A lot of people seem to be getting behind the goal. I'm just so happy and I hope that it can continue until 12 January and we can get more votes."

If successful, Roche’s impressive goal for Peamount United against Wexford Youths in front of a crowd of just 95 on 13 October 2013, could lead her to become the first female to win the award.

The striker joined newly-promoted French top flight club ASPTT Albi last summer.

However, Albi manager David Welferinger said on Tuesday that Roche had opted not to return to France following her Christmas break in Ireland.

Watch Roche's shortlisted goal: