Sligo Rovers manager Paul Cook is delighted to announce the acquisition of two new players for his squad on transfer deadline day

The two new players at the club are Derby County’s James Meredith and former Australian under 21 international Matthew Gordon who signs from Marconi FC. Cook spoke of his delight as his hard work in adding to the squad in the transfer window paid dividend

“We are delighted to get the two lads in. They will bolster the squad and add competition for places. We had James over since last week. We’ve come to an agreement with Derby County and he has signed until the end of the season.”

Meredith who hails from Melbourne is 19 years old left back and according to the manager he comes highly recommend having signed a professional contract with Derby back in 2005.

Matthew Gordon signs from Marconi FC and is a 22 year old left sided midfielder. The former Australia under 21 international has also signed until the end of the season.

“Matthew also comes highly recommended and we are happy to get someone in for that position. The idea of bringing in players on a short term deal is that myself and Gerry [Carr] can take a good look at them and they players can in turn prove themselves to us. It is almost like an extended trial”.

With the transfer window set to shut Cook also spoke of his disappointment and frustration at not being able to bring in a striker and the breaking down of the deal to bring in Alan Moore due to injury. He feels the failure to bring in a striker could be a big problem in the remainder of the season.

“I was desperate to bring in a striker. Everyone knows our situation regarding our numbers our front and with injuries and suspensions it could be problem. But with wages and the lengths of contract it is hard to bring in the right player and that was the most important aspect, that it was the right player and that he was good enough. Regarding Alan Moore I am disappointed at how it has materialized. People seem to have varying opinions on Alan but any team that gets him knows that they are getting a top class player. The deal was done so we are disappointed. “

When questioned on whether it is possible for the deal may be rekindled come next season Cook did not rule it out as a hectic month comes to an end. Cook has now brought in four players which is largely thanks to the fundraising initiative of Vincent Nally that raised €60,000 for the club to spend.

“I am very grateful to the supporters and all involved in raising the money that made the deals possible. I can not thank them enough”

The arrivial of the two new players comes on the back of Matthew Judge and Gavin Peers have extended their contracts at the club and again it is something Cook is happy that their futures have been agreed.

Rovers now travel to Cork City this Friday with the luxury of a fully fit squad and the manager is looking forward to the game with the Leesiders.

Courtesy : Rory Houston