"Eddie Foley grew up in a GAA environment in Youghal but after learning that people were needed for an upcoming referee’s course, he decided to give it a go.

And the rest is history. From there he refereed in the AUL and Munster Senior League before being selected for the national refereeing panel in 1990 and then taking charge of some League of Ireland games before impressing Uefa delegates as an assistant referee.

Foley was the first official from Ireland to be appointed to the refereeing panel for a World Cup when he achieved the feat for the finals in France back in 1998.

He was also involved at the European Championships in 2000 and also numerous Champions League, and Europa League matches.

Foley is currently the assistant referee coach at the Football Association of Ireland."