Author: Jack Dempsey

AbbVie Academy Round-Up

The academy enjoyed another hugely positive weekend, with every squad giving a strong account of themselves in the latest round of fixtures. There were standout performances across the board, as the teams showed resilience, quality and determination to secure important results. From hard-earned victories to encouraging displays, it was another weekend that highlighted the progress being made throughout the academy.

U20 | Derry City 2–3 Sligo Rovers

It was another impressive afternoon for the U20s as a Callum Lynch hat-trick inspired Rovers to a deserved victory away to Derry City on Saturday.

Buoyed by last week’s first win of the season, the lads travelled full of confidence and made a bright start, creating plenty of positive attacking opportunities.

The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute when 18-year-old Callum Lynch found the net. Just ten minutes later, Lynch doubled both his tally and Rovers’ lead with a composed finish beyond the City goalkeeper.

The hosts responded quickly, pulling a goal back from the penalty spot just four minutes later, but Rovers were soon handed a penalty of their own. There was only ever going to be one taker, and Lynch calmly converted to complete a first-half hat-trick right on the stroke of half-time.

The second half was a much tighter affair, with both sides defending far better than they had before the break. Aside from a Derry City consolation goal, chances were few and far between as Rovers stood firm to secure all three points.

The result lifts the boys into fourth place in the table, just one point off the top, as they continue their strong start to the campaign.

U17 | Longford Town 0–4 Sligo Rovers

It was an enjoyable Sunday afternoon at Bishopsgate for the boys as they produced one of their best performances of the season to move to the top of the league.

The lads were determined to make it back-to-back wins and made the perfect start when Ryan Cunningham opened the scoring in the eighth minute. Donnacha Malone soon added a second to put Rovers firmly in control.

The boys continued to dominate, creating chance after chance and keeping the pressure on the hosts. Their efforts were rewarded before the break with an own goal, before Gibbons added a fourth to send Rovers into half-time with a commanding 4-0 lead.

While the first half was full of attacking football, the second period was a much tighter contest. Both sides were more organised defensively, limiting the number of chances as the score remained unchanged.

The result sees the boys climb to the top of the table, where they remain unbeaten and full of confidence heading into the next round of fixtures.

U14 | Finn Harps 3–3 Sligo Rovers

The U14s travelled to Killygordon Academy Grounds on Sunday and continued the recent trend of entertaining games across the academy.

The boys made a bright start and took the lead when striker Gethins finished calmly past the Finn Harps goalkeeper. Ivers-Brehony doubled the advantage ten minutes later to put Rovers 2-0 up inside the opening 20 minutes.

The lads defended brilliantly for the remainder of the first half and went into the break with a deserved two-goal lead.

The second half, however, didn’t quite go to plan. Finn Harps fought their way back into the game with two well-taken goals to level the scores with 15 minutes remaining.

It never looked like finishing 2-2, with both teams throwing everything at it in search of a winner. Substitute Maye looked to have won it for Rovers when he powered home a header with just ten minutes to play.

Unfortunately, the hosts were awarded a penalty with only two minutes remaining, and it was calmly converted by the Harps striker to make it 3-3. The boys can be very pleased with a hard-earned point away from home after another committed performance.

WU17 | Finn Harps 3–0 Sligo Rovers

It wasn’t the result the girls were hoping for on a frustrating afternoon in Donegal.

After taking four points from their opening two games, the girls went into the match full of confidence but found themselves two goals behind at the break after the hosts struck twice in the first half.

Despite creating some good opportunities and producing some nice passages of play after the interval, the girls were unable to find a way back into the game as the hosts held on for the three points.

The result leaves Rovers sitting third in the table, just one point off top spot, with plenty still to play for in the weeks ahead.

Tom Lavery

Rovers bring in striker Jamie McGonigle on loan

John Russell has added to his attacking options ahead of an important few weeks for Sligo Rovers, with the arrival of striker Jamie McGonigle to the Showgrounds from NIFL Premiership side Coleraine.

The experienced centre-forward joins on loan until the end of the current season, subject to international transfer clearance. This is Russell’s second acquisition of the summer following the signing of Jamie O’Donnell last week.

McGonigle’s move comes at a pivotal time for the Bit O’Red who face into a busy few weeks of both Premier Division and FAI Cup action, beginning with Saturday’s Connacht derby at Pearse Stadium in Galway.

The 30-year-old will add firepower to Rovers’ front line and is a proven goal-scorer having netted over 70 times in the Premiership over two spells with Coleraine and one with Belfast side Crusaders.

A native of Dungiven in County Derry, McGonigle will be familiar to Rovers fans for his time at the Brandywell where he spent three years.

There, he won an FAI Cup with Derry City in 2022, netting 24 Premier Division goals and four in the cup. He scored four times against Sligo during that period, including a brace in a defeat to the Candystripes at the Brandywell at the end of the 2021 season.

The former Northern Ireland U21 international is hoping to be available for Saturday’s clash with Galway United and is ready for the challenge of competing in the Premier Division once again. With a big cup tie with Janesboro to come the following week and crucial league meetings against Drogheda, Dundalk, Derry and Waterford to follow, Jamie is keen to impress straight away.

“I’m hoping to be able to hit the ground running and get up to speed with things as quickly as I can”, he tells sligorovers.com.

“I’ve been able to do it quite quickly the last few times I’ve switched clubs so I’ll be aiming to do the same again.

“I know the league already so hopefully that will help me settle. I loved my time with Derry playing in this division and it really appealed to me to come back to the league and challenge myself here again.

“I’ve been following the league since I’ve left Derry and it’s constantly evolving.

“There are more top players being added to the squads every year. Even the teams at the bottom have really quality players who would get into the teams at the top. It’s a lot more competitive than it was a decade or so ago.

“Everyone beats everyone and it’s down to the match night and how well prepared you are, really. It’s up to us now to make sure we’re coming out on top in games.”

Rovers have struggled somewhat for goals this term. But with the likes of Will Fitzgerald, Kevin Zefi and Ryan O’Kane on site, Jamie believes he can thrive in what is a side brimming with creativity.

“It’s exactly what you’re looking for as a striker”, Jamie continues.

“When you’re in a team with the talent that we have going forward, it’s really exciting. I’ve seen a few Rovers games this season and you can see the talent and the will to win and to play football in an attractive manner is there. It’s just about getting in the right places at the right times and I’m hoping to be able to finish off a few moves.

“The squad is there to succeed.

“There’s youth and experience.

“Sligo have a wonderful goalkeeper in Sam Sargeant, one of the best in the country. Outfield, we have the likes of Jeannot Esua, Ollie Denham and Will Fitzgerald who I know from Derry. These are players who have been around the league a while and know what it takes.

“Sean McHale and Gareth McElroy are two of the best young defenders in the country. Ryan O’Kane causes issues for everyone he plays against and I know how highly regarded Jamie O’Donnell is.”

McGonigle’s endeavour on the pitch, his years in the game at this level and his record in front of goal was central to Russell’s reason for bringing him back to the League of Ireland.

“He’s worked hard for every team he’s played for and it stands out”, the Rovers boss says.

“He’s a player of real quality, a proven goal-scorer and brings a lot of experience to our group which is always huge.

“He knows where the goal is and his record proves it.

“He really fits the type of character we want in our dressing room. It’s a great opportunity for Jamie to get games and for us, we are adding another attacking option. We can’t wait to see him get going for us.”

David Goulden

Sligo Rovers announce healthcare partnership with Horan’s Pharmacy

Sligo Rovers are delighted to welcome Horan’s Pharmacy, Castle Street, Sligo, as the club’s Official Healthcare Partner.

The partnership will see Horan’s Pharmacy provide a range of healthcare products to support the health, recovery and wellbeing of the club’s players and staff throughout the season.

The agreement reflects Horan’s Pharmacy’s continued commitment to supporting local sport and the wider Sligo community.

Enda Horan said:

“We are proud to become the Official Healthcare Partner of Sligo Rovers FC. As a local business, serving the public since 1953, we recognise the important role the club plays in our community, both on and off the pitch.

“Supporting the health and wellbeing of the players and staff is a natural extension of our commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services to the people of Sligo.

“We look forward to developing a strong and lasting partnership with the club.”

Donagh Oates, speaking on behalf of Sligo Rovers, added:

“We are delighted to welcome Horan’s Pharmacy as our Official Healthcare Partner.

“Access to high-quality healthcare products is an important part of supporting our players throughout the season, and we greatly appreciate the commitment shown by Enda and the team.

“Partnerships with local businesses are hugely important to Sligo Rovers, and we look forward to working together over the coming season.”

Based on Castle Street in the heart of Sligo town, Horan’s Pharmacy has served the local community since 1953.

The club would like to thank Enda Horan and everyone at Horan’s Pharmacy for their valued support and looks forward to working with them throughout the season.

North West Credit Union announced as main sponsor of 2026 Sligo Rovers Summer Camps

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce North West Credit Union as the main sponsor of our 2026 Summer Camps programme.

The partnership will see North West Credit Union support one of the club’s largest community initiatives, with camps taking place across the region and giving young players the chance to enjoy football, stay active, develop their skills and make lasting memories.

Sligo Rovers Summer Camps continue to be a hugely important part of the club’s connection with families and communities across the North West. Each year, the programme gives children of all abilities the opportunity to take part in a fun, inclusive and positive football environment, led by Sligo Rovers coaches.

As part of the 2026 programme, camps will take place in Sligo and across a number of regional locations, helping bring the club closer to communities throughout the wider North West region.

Yasmina Rahmoune, Marketing Officer with North West Credit Union, said:

“We’re delighted to support the Sligo Rovers Summer Camps this year. These camps provide a fantastic opportunity for young people to stay active, build confidence, develop new skills, and make lasting friendships. At NWCU, we believe that positive habits formed at a young age can help create brighter futures. We’re especially looking forward to seeing the camps extend into our common bond areas in Roscommon and engaging with even more young athletes this summer.”

Donagh Oates, Commercial Manager at Sligo Rovers, added:

“We are delighted to welcome North West Credit Union as the main sponsor of our 2026 Summer Camps programme.

“This is a brilliant partnership for the club and one that supports a hugely important part of what Sligo Rovers does in the community.

“Our Summer Camps are about much more than football. They give young people the chance to stay active, meet new friends, build confidence and enjoy being part of the club.

“To have the backing of North West Credit Union, an organisation with such strong community values, is a great fit for Sligo Rovers. Their support will help us continue to grow the programme and bring it to more families across the region.

“We would like to thank Yasmina and everyone at North West Credit Union for their support, and we look forward to working together throughout what promises to be another brilliant summer of football.”

The club would like to thank North West Credit Union for their support and commitment to the 2026 Summer Camps programme.

Further details on upcoming Sligo Rovers Summer Camps, including locations and booking information, are available through the club’s official channels.

Striker Jamie O’Donnell signs for Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers are excited to confirm that Republic of Ireland underage striker Jamie O’Donnell has today joined the Bit O’Red, signing a long-term contract.

Rated as one of the top young talents in the region, this will be 16-year-old O’Donnell’s first professional contract. 

A native of Buncrana in County Donegal, O’Donnell started out with local club Cockhill Celtic with whom he spent ten years. 

After those years at Cockhill, he then moved on to Derry City’s academy, featuring at several underage levels for the Candystripes. 

The teen has also represented Ireland at under 15 and 16s, making his international debut in Portugal and most recently featured in a game with Netherlands. He netted twice in a game with Greece and recently scored a late winner against Hungary. He also featured for Derry’s first team against Rovers in a friendly at the start of this year. 

O’Donnell’s eye for a goal and huge potential means his progress has been closely tracked by Rovers boss John Russell who is thrilled to get this move over the line. 

“It’s important that we try to attract the best young talent to Sligo Rovers so I’m delighted that we’ve secured this signing”, Russell tells sligorovers.com

“He has represented Ireland at underage level and he has all the attributes to become a top centre forward.

“From chatting to Jamie and his parents, I was really struck by his mentality. A lot of young players have talent but you also need to have the mindset to work hard and push yourself. We feel that this is the right environment for Jamie to develop and progress and we’re all looking forward to working with him.”

O’Donnell is already familiar with some of his new team-mates having played in the same Irish side as fellow Donegal man and Rovers goalkeeper Charlie McGarvey. While centre half Gareth McElroy is from just down the road. 

“Sligo’s such a nice area and would already know a few players at the club which of course, helps a lot”, Jamie says. 

“I know Charlie quite well and he’s a team mate with Ireland. Gareth would be from my area too and I’m looking forward to having the chance to maybe go up against both of them in training when I can and of course playing alongside them.” 

Describing his style of play as similar to World Cup stars Harry Kane and Erling Haaland, O’Donnell is keen to make his mark at the Showgrounds and continue to progress on the international stage.

“I’d see myself as a number nine as I’ve consistently scored goals in that position at all levels. But I am also comfortable anywhere across the front three and in the ten.

“I really like Kane and Haaland as they are both top class nines.They have different styles but I like to take characteristics from both of them.

“I really enjoyed (being with Ireland) and hopefully I’ll continue to be involved with Ireland during my time at Rovers.”

Citing Rovers’ Abbvie Academy’s record of producing young players ready for the first team, Jamie is keen to follow the same lines as the likes of current first team players McElroy and Daire Patton. Both of whom are graduates of our youth system. 

“There’s definitely a pathway here”, Jamie states. 

“Johnny Kenny and Owen Elding’s journeys have certainly highlighted that. Daire and Gareth are thriving in the first team at the moment. 

“What’s best for me and my future was important in deciding to come here and the opportunity to one day play first team football, hopefully in the near future played a massive part in me coming to Sligo. The plan is to work hard and get my chance at senior level and make the most of it. My dream is to become a first-team regular here. 

David Goulden 

AbbVie Academy Round-Up

It was another successful weekend for the academy, with our sides enjoying an excellent second round of fixtures and producing a number of impressive performances. Across the age groups, there were plenty of positives to take, from dramatic late winners and valuable league points to encouraging displays full of quality.

U20 | Sligo Rovers 2-1 Athlone Town

It was a well-rounded display at The Showgrounds as our U20s picked up their first points of the season.

Rovers started brightly, putting together some excellent passages of play and creating several goalscoring opportunities. The lads’ positive start was rewarded in the 22nd minute when David Jonathan broke the deadlock. The boys continued to apply the pressure until the break, with Callum Lynch playing Corey Lavery-McCay through on goal to double the lead five minutes before half-time.

However, the boys soon discovered it was not going to be a walk in the park, as Athlone pulled a goal back shortly after the restart. A resilient defensive display ensured the two first-half goals proved enough, as Rovers held on to claim all three points against a strong Athlone side.

The lads will look to build on the result next week when they travel north to face Derry, with the aim of climbing further up the table.

U17 | Sligo Rovers 3-2 Finn Harps

It was an enthralling contest between two evenly matched sides as our U17s picked up all three points in dramatic fashion on Sunday.

After the disappointment of conceding a late equaliser away to Drogheda last week, the lads were determined to go one better, and they made the perfect start when the in-form Ryan Quinn opened the scoring in the 19th minute, following on from his brace the previous week.

After a cagey first half, the second period was anything but, with Finn Harps levelling the game shortly after the restart. Rovers responded well, as full-back Ethan O’Neill restored the lead with a fine finish.

Both sides continued to threaten for the remainder of the half, and it looked like déjà vu for the boys when Finn Harps grabbed a late equaliser, leaving Rovers on the verge of dropping points late for a second consecutive week.

However, super-sub Dillon Doherty had other ideas. Introduced just four minutes earlier, Doherty fired home a dramatic 93rd-minute winner to spark wild celebrations and secure all three points for Rovers at the death.

The win leaves Rovers second in the table ahead of next weekend’s away trip to Longford Town, where they will be aiming for another victory.

U14 Development Weekend

Rovers had three U14 sides in action at the FAI National Training Centre on Saturday, with all three teams producing committed and hard-working performances throughout the day.

Two of the sides were narrowly beaten 1-0 by Wexford and Waterford in closely contested games. Despite the results, there were plenty of encouraging displays, with several players stepping up and showing great quality both on and off the ball.

It proved to be a more difficult afternoon for the third U14 side, who came up against a strong Klub Kildare outfit. While the scoreline did not reflect the effort shown by the boys, the game provided another valuable learning experience as they continue their development.

WU17 | Sligo Rovers 2-2 Longford Town

A solid display from the WU17s saw the girls earn a valuable point against an impressive Longford Town side.

Coming into the game on the back of a 3-2 victory away to Drogheda last week, confidence was high, and the girls made the perfect start when Farry opened the scoring with a fine finish in the ninth minute.

Both teams continued to create chances, with Longford responding through a well-worked equaliser before taking the lead just before half-time.

Rovers responded well after the break, with the in-form Farry grabbing her second of the game to level the scores once again. The remainder of the match was a closely contested affair, with both defences standing firm against some dangerous attacking play as the sides ultimately had to settle for a share of the spoils.

The point leaves the girls joint top of the table ahead of next Saturday’s away trip to Finn Harps, where they will be hoping to continue their strong start to the season.

Tom Lavery

Niall Harrison Appointed Head of Academy Coaching at Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers are delighted to confirm the appointment of Niall Harrison as the Club’s new Head of Academy Coaching, with the Sligo native set to take up the role in early July 2026.

Harrison arrives at the Showgrounds with a wealth of experience at the very top level of player and coach development in Ireland. His appointment represents a major step forward as the Bit O’ Red continue to strengthen their academy structures and long-term vision.

A UEFA Pro Licence coach with decades of experience in the game, Niall has played a central role in shaping Ireland’s elite underage pathway. Most recently, he served as Boys Emerging Talent National Coordinator with the FAI from 2006 to 2025, leading one of the most important development programmes in Irish football.

During that time, he worked with and supported the progression of a host of players who have gone on to perform at the highest levels of the game, including Caoimhín Kelleher, Dara O’Shea, Evan Ferguson and Robbie Brady.

Just as importantly, Harrison is widely respected for his work in coach education, having tutored on UEFA Pro Licence and Elite Youth A Licence courses while mentoring many of the League of Ireland’s leading coaches — including current Sligo Rovers manager John Russell.

That blend of experience, personality and proven ability to develop both players and coaches makes him an ideal fit for a club that places academy football at the heart of everything it does.

This is a significant moment for Sligo Rovers. With the stadium redevelopment, the club’s centenary on the horizon and an ambition to cement its place as the leading player-development club in the region, the strengthening of the academy has never been more important. The appointment of a figure of Harrison’s standing underlines that intent.

Welcoming Niall to the Showgrounds, Sligo Rovers Academy Director Conor O’Grady said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring someone of Niall’s calibre into the club. His experience speaks for itself but, just as importantly, his values and his approach to developing players and coaches are exactly what we’re about at Sligo Rovers.

As we continue to develop the Showgrounds and look ahead to the club’s centenary, building a strong, sustainable academy is crucial. Niall will play a huge role in that, helping us to create the best possible environment for young players in the region.”

The role is supported through the League of Ireland Academy Investment Programme, which is designed to help clubs build sustainable, high-quality academy structures and player pathways.

Speaking on his appointment, Harrison said:

“It’s a huge honour for me to come back to Sligo and take on this role with my home club.

There’s a real sense of ambition around the place at the moment, from the work being done on facilities to the focus on developing players through the academy. That’s something that really excited me. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in, working with the coaches and players, and helping to build on the strong foundations that are already there.”

Harrison will formally take up his role in July and everyone at the club looks forward to welcoming him to the Showgrounds as he begins this exciting new chapter with the Bit O’ Red.

This role is funded through the League of Ireland Academy Investment Programme, supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and Sport Ireland. Sligo Rovers FC would like to thank Minister Patrick O’Donovan and Minister Charlie McConalogue for their support in helping the club secure this invaluable appointment.

Sligo Rovers Regional Summer Camps Now Open for Booking

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that bookings are now open for our 2026 Regional Summer Camps.

Our camps provide young players with the opportunity to develop their football skills in a fun, safe and professional environment alongside Sligo Rovers coaches. Each camp focuses on improving technical ability, confidence, teamwork and enjoyment of the game, while also giving young supporters the chance to represent the Bit O’ Red in their local community.

With camps taking place across the region throughout the summer, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Camp Dates & Locations

Enniscrone | Monday 29 June – Friday 3 July

https://hub.klubfunder.com/KilglassEnniscroneUnitedFC/payit/eventregistration/keufc—sligo-rovers-camp—29th-june-2026/detail

Ballaghaderreen | Monday 6 July – Friday 10 July

https://ballaghaderreenfc.clubforce.com/products/membership

Ballyvary | Monday 13 July – Friday 17 July

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/ballyvarybluebombers/2268934

Gurteen | Monday 27 July – Friday 31 July

https://gurteenceltic.clubforce.com/products/membership

Swinford | Monday 3 August – Friday 7 August

https://hub.klubfunder.com/SwinfordfootballClub/payit/eventregistration/swinford-fc-sligo-rovers-summer-camp-2026/detail

Boyle | Monday 10 August – Friday 14 August

https://boylecelticfc.clubforce.com/products/membership

Enniscrone | Monday 17 August – Friday 21 August

https://hub.klubfunder.com/KilglassEnniscroneUnitedFC/payit/eventregistration/keufc—sligo-rovers-camp—17th-august-2026/detail

Spaces are limited across all camps and early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

Club Statement | The Future of Matchdays at The Showgrounds

Following investigations into incidents at recent fixtures, Sligo Rovers Football Club has issued stadium banning orders to three individuals.

These decisions were taken following a review of the available evidence and consultation with the relevant authorities.

Sligo Rovers is committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming and enjoyable matchday environment for supporters, players, staff, volunteers and visitors to The Showgrounds. While the vast majority of supporters continue to represent the club with passion and pride, behaviour that falls short of expected standards will be addressed accordingly.

The club recognises the important role that supporters play in creating the atmosphere that makes The Showgrounds a special place on matchdays. Equally, all supporters have a responsibility to contribute positively to the matchday experience and to respect fellow supporters, club personnel and visiting guests.

Sligo Rovers will continue to work with An Garda Síochána, the FAI and stadium security personnel to ensure that The Showgrounds remains a safe venue for all.

As this matter concerns specific individuals, the club will be making no further comment.

Goalkeeper Charlie McGarvey signs first professional deal with Sligo Rovers

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that young goalkeeper Charlie McGarvey has signed his first professional contract with the club, effective from July 1st. 

The long term deal ties the future of one of the brightest young talents in the country to the Showgrounds as the Bit O’Red continue to graduate our underage stars from our Abbvie Academy to pro-level. 

16-year-old McGarvey is a native of Letterkenny in County Donegal and joined Rovers in early 2023 following time at local side Illistrin FC, Finn Harps and Sligo/Leitrim schoolboy outfit Yeats United. 

The Summerhill College student has represented the Republic of Ireland at various schoolboy levels and travelled with the under 16 side to Holland in February of this year. He recently took part in a training camp in Dublin ahead of the FIFA Under 17 World Cup due to take place in Qatar this winter. 

McGarvey has been a regular face at training with John Russell’s first team squad and the teen shot-stopper was named on the bench for our Premier Division game with Bohemians at the Showgrounds last month. 

Speaking to in-house meda, McGarvey says he is honoured to sign his first deal with the Bit O’Red and is looking forward to developing further under Russell and goalkeeping coach Richard Brush.

“I’m really proud to be signing my first deal and for it to be with Sligo Rovers, a club I’ve always dreamed of signing with. I’m hugely grateful to everyone who made it possible”, he tells sligorovers.com.

“I know I wouldn’t be in this position without the support of my parents and their guidance over the years. I’d also like to thank my previous clubs Illistrin and Yeats and all the coaches who have helped me develop over the years, particularly those here at the Abbvie Academy.

“As a keeper, I think I’m comfortable on the ball, with good distribution skills. I can get down quickly, make saves and am confident when it comes to taking high balls. 

“At the same time, I know there’s much to further improve on and the Showgrounds is the ideal place for me to do this.

“I’m really looking forward to continuing working with John and his staff. Especially Richard, who has helped me so much already. 

“I am so lucky to be part of this club. I’m excited to see what the future brings!”.  

First team boss Russell praised Charlie’s input to date, the Rovers manager says having the goalkeeper take part in first team sessions is vital in terms of how McGarvey develops. 

 “He’s a lad who has come through our academy and has shown excellent commitment and professionalism throughout his time so far”, Russell says. 

“He has trained regularly with the first team under the guidance of Richard. 

“Although Charlie hasn’t made his first team debut yet, we believe he has real potential and this is an important step in his development. 

“At Rovers, we’re proud of creating opportunities for our young players, and we’re looking forward to helping Charlie continue his progression over the coming years.”

Head of Academy Conor O’Grady said there was little surprise on his part to see the Donegal man progress to the professional stage.

“Any conversation you have with others about the best young players in the country, Charlie is never too far away”, O’Grady says.

“He’s got a very bright future ahead of him and we’re looking forward to seeing how he develops. 

“Everyone at the academy is delighted to see Charlie has taken the next step in his career. He has a really good attitude, along with a lot of talent. 

“I feel that hard working persona comes from the way he was brought up. His family are always great to deal with.

“It again shows that there’s a clear pathway from academy to the first team. It’s also a testament to the work being put into his progression here by our coaches.”

David Goulden