Alan Mannus has been compared to a fine Irish whiskey - by his closest rival.
The 40-year-old goalkeeper played a leading role in Shamrock Rovers’ league title success this season and also in their run to Europe’s group stages.
Mannus, the former Northern Ireland international, had been intending to retire at the end of this season.
READ MORE: Rovers' Euro campaign concludes in defeat as Hoops left to rue barren run in front of goal
But during the summer, it was suggested he could have a change of heart and play on for one more year.
Talks between Mannus and the club are ongoing ahead of the return to pre-season training after Christmas.
And while backup ‘keeper Leon Pohls has been limited to six appearances all season because of Mannus’ form, the German is hoping the Hoops No 1 sticks around.
Pohls, who has another year on his contract, made his European debut when starting Thursday’s 1-0 defeat away to Swedish giants Djurgardens.
And he said: “I don’t know if I can say this but I told Al the other day that he’s like an old, fine Irish whiskey. He’s getting better and better.
“Al deserves a Team of the Year spot. I’m delighted for him. I speak to him a lot and I speak a lot with Jose (Ferrer), our goalkeeper coach.
“We work on goalkeeper aspects every day. The stuff I learn from those two guys is a huge part of what I do in games.
“I’m very happy to work with Alan and he’s had a great season overall.”
Although Rovers lost in Sweden, Pohls feels the performance was on the money and a positive to take into next season as the club looks to get back on that stage.
He added: “I was delighted to make my European debut and that was one of our best away experiences in Europe - the lads should be very proud of themselves.
“1-0 is a loss but it’s still a great result and we’ll move into next year and build on this game. We can look back on this game when next season starts and think positively.”
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