MICHAEL D Higgins will perform his first presidential function next Friday in Galway since his election victory at the weekend.
His function will have nothing to do with his impending move to Áras an Uachtaráin but rather his role as president of Galway United FC.
Mr Higgins has been president of the club for the past few years. On Friday evening, Galway will take on Monaghan United in a crucial play-off match in the Airtricity League which will decide which side plays in the premier division next season.
The first leg of the play-off takes place in Monaghan tonight with the second and final clash taking place at Terryland Park in Galway on Friday night. Mr Higgins, who is a season-ticket holder with Galway United, said he intended being at the match to support his favourite team.
“It will be a crucial match and hopefully we can win it. I have been overwhelmed by the reception I got when I returned to Galway so hopefully I will get to meet many more on Friday evening in Terryland Park.”
Galway United have finished bottom of the premier division after a dreadful campaign but will preserve their top flight status if they can defeat Monaghan United, managed by Roddy Collins.