Football: Newry City snap up O'Connor
New Newry City AFC Manager Gary Boyle has made the first signing of his reign at The Showgrounds.
Former Glentoran and Warrenpoint man Ciaran O'Connor returns to The Showgrounds on a permanent deal after a brief loan spell with the Sports Direct Premiership side last season.
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder - who also had spells with his native Dundalk, Derry City and Finn Harps - was a free agent, having been released by the Glens earlier this year.
O’Connor, who was unable to feature as much he had hoped in a Newry shirt last season following a lengthy ban after a red card against Linfield, said: “I loved my time at the club which unfortunately was more so off the pitch with the team at training and chatting to the people around the club.
"I'm really grateful to have the opportunity to give back to the fans on the pitch and enjoy my football again. I can’t wait to get going.”
Boyle, who takes over a manager following the departure of Darren Mullen after 10 years as boss, added: “Ciaran is a player proven at this level who will add genuine quality at the top end of the pitch. He's versatile and can play in a number of positions which gives us options and flexibility.
"Ciaran has come from a full-time environment and I know he will bring professionalism, which will help to drive the high standards already set by the squad," added Boyle, who spent time as Mullen's Assistant.
"He's a good character and bedded in really well with the group in his loan spell here previously.
"It’s an exciting signing for the club and I know the supporters will enjoy watching him play.”
Meanwhile, City have announced a 2-year extension to their deal with local company HMT Group as their main shirt sponsors.
They'll also be taking on a Manchester United Legends XI at The Showgrounds on Saturday July 22nd.