Irish soccer star Shane Long says he knew former next door neighbour John 'Bubbles' O'Dwyer was destined for greatness.

Last Sunday saw O'Dwyer win his first All-Ireland SHC title with Tipperary and Long, a former Tipp minor ace himself, revealed his delight for 'Bubbles' and his team mates, having tuned in to some of the game against Kilkenny during Ireland's preparations for their World Cup qualifier against Serbia on Monday night.

"I wasn't able to watch the last 10 minutes but John O'Shea had it on his phone so we were able to listen into it," the Southampton striker is quoted saying in today's Irish Daily Star.

"I was delighted they won the final and I felt they fully deserved it. They were animals all over the pitch and the whole county is proud of them.

"I sent some of the players I know a few texts and I got quick replies. There were a few Snapchats that were enjoyable to watch. I played minor with a few of the lads but I know the feeling when you win something big.

"You don't want to be on your phone the whole time so I've left them along for now.

"Bubbles (John O'Dwyer) went to primary school when I went to secondary school. He lived next door to me and, from the time he was a kid, I knew he was going to do big things. That makes me feel old right now!"

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