ADAM'S GOT STAYING POWER

Matthews eyes new contract after finding his feet with Rovers

- BY MARK MCCADDEN

ADAM Matthews wasn't sure what to expect when he landed in Dublin last January to seal his move to Shamrock Rovers.

But with a Premier Division title all but wrapped up, an FAI Cup final to look forward to and a Europa Conference League campaign hotting up, the former Celtic defender is so happy with life at Tallaght Stadium that he is ready to extend his stay.

Matthews has already opened talks with the club regarding a new deal.

The former Wales international, who played 150 games for Celtic and won four league titles and a Scottish Cup, is eager to remain with the Dublin side.

He has bounced back from the blow of an injury in his league debut, in the Aviva Stadium opener against Bohemians, to play 15 times in the Premier Division.

And he is ready to play his part in a busy end-of-season schedule, while hopefully nailing down a new contract.

"A frustrating start," he said, reflecting on his year so far in Irish football. "Obviously in my first game I got injured with my knee, so that was frustrating.

"But I think at the back end of the season I'm getting fully fit and I'm starting to show everyone how good I can be. So, hopefully that continues.

"Hopefully, I'm here next year and I can kick on again."