Career
Desmond played for several clubs in the League of Ireland and the English League. As an international, Desmond also played for Ireland. Desmond made all four appearances for Ireland while playing for Middlesbrough.
Ireland took the lead in the 33rd minute when Desmond, after collecting a pass from Tommy O"Connor, was brought down in the England penalty area.
Con Martin then converted the subsequent penalty kick. Desmond made just two more international appearances for Ireland.
They came on 9 October 1949 in a 1-1 draw with Finland and on 13 November 1949 in 3-1 defeat to Sweden. Both these games were World Cup qualifiers.