Newry Manager Darren Mullen “After what has been a long break it’s good to bring some positive news to the club with the signing of the two lads. I’ve been trying to sign Thomas for a while now and thankfully the circumstances suit both parties. He’s strong quick and direct which is what we need in the final third. His experience and the fact he knows a lot of the lads will give the dressing room a big lift. Jimmy is someone we obviously know well and without doubt one of the main reasons why we were so successful during our first 5 years. His skill and ability to pick a pass will be a big asset to our attacking play this year.

On a different note I’d like to thank Andy Coleman, Adam Foley, Stefan Lavery and Briann Cabraley who have left the club. They have all been great lads to work with and whilst we wish them all the best for the future they know they will always be welcome at The Showgrounds.” 

Newry Manager Darren Mullen has clinched the deal of the transfer window by securing the signing of Newry favourite Declan Carville. Mullen commented “Declan returning to The Showgrounds is a huge signing for the club in more ways than one. We’ve missed him both on and off the pitch and I know the fans, players and coaching staff will be delighted with his return.

His departure from the club at the end of last season was not how anyone would have wanted it to play out but we made our peace soon after and I know he will want to show how determined he is to bring success to the club. We’ve missed his physicality and leadership which as we’ve seen already is badly needed in this league. After speaking to David Jeffrey I know he did not make the decision to allow him to leave lightly but I can’t thank him enough for agreeing to make it happen. Unfortunately, he’s not available this weekend but will be straight into the squad for the Knockbreda game next Tuesday.”

Welcome back to The Showgrounds Declan!

Newry Manager Darren Mullen is getting his January transfer business done early this year moving in quickly to secure the services of Briann Cabraley & Mark Kelly for the second half of the 19/20 season. “For the amount of possession we’ve had in games this season we haven’t scored enough goals so adding extra attackers to the squad was a priority and I’m delighted to bring Brian and Mark to the club. Brian played against us earlier in the season and he’s a player with bags of ability and pace. He’s brave and direct so I’ve no doubt he will fit in well with our style of play. Mark is a player who I’ve admired for a few years and tried to bring him to the club on a few occasions. He’s physical and strong with the ability to hold the ball up extremely well which can only help the other attacking players at the club. It’s something we’ve been lacking in for the past two seasons so I’m hoping we see the benefits of that in the remainder of the season. Both players will go straight into the squad for the Irish Cup next week.”

Briann Cabraley “I am very happy Darren has given me the opportunity to play at the club, I have played against Newry this season and watched them play since and it is clear Darren already has a very strong side together. I have been involved in a few training sessions already and it’s been great so I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and am ready for the battle.”

Mark Kelly commented “Delighted to have signed for the club and getting the chance to play under Darren and his coaching staff. From my short time having met the lads there’s a great atmosphere amongst the squad and an abundance of quality here. From previous experience of playing against Newry they have always worked extremely hard and played an attractive brand of football. I’m looking forward to playing a part in that between now and the end of the season.”

Both transfers are subject to confirmation when the transfer window opens.

Photograph Courtesy of Brendan Monaghan Photography.

Delighted to share the news that Adam Foley has been rewarded for some scintillating performances with the NI Football Writers Bluefin Sport Championship Player of the Month. Newry Manager Darren Mullen commented “This accolade is just reward for some excellent performances by Adam in October. He’s a player with undoubted ability who just needs to perform consistently and thankfully he has shown that recently. Our style of play suits him and he has been thriving in a new role so hopefully that continues for the remainder of the season. He’s a great lad who has fitted in well at the club and will be the first to acknowledge the work of his teammates in helping him receive this award.”

Newry City are delighted to announce that they have secured the signature of rising star John McGovern on a professional contract.

Darren Mullen commented “This contract is well deserved for John’s performances this season. Since his first appearance in preseason he has been terrific not only in terms of his ability but also his attitude. It’s hard to believe at times that he has just turned 17 but he has a maturity well beyond his years and most importantly is still willing to learn. He comes from a very good family who keep him well grounded and who know he is being well looked after at the club. He knows he has plenty more to learn but is at a club who is well suited to bringing young lads on and developing that talent. I’m sure the fans will also be delighted as he has become a firm favourite with them and they can see what it means for John to play for his hometown club.”

John McGovern commented “I am delighted to sign my first professional contract with Newry City AFC. It’s been a fantastic few months adjusting to playing in the Irish league championship and thankfully getting a few goals. I would like to thank Darren and the coaching staff for helping me get to this point and to the lads on the team for their on-field encouragement. I just need to keep listening and learning to help our cup run and get back to the premiership.”

Johns parents Dermot & Pauline added, “As parents we are very proud and know that he is in good hands with Newry. It’s a great club and everyone has made him feel very welcome as a young local player who has progressed. He knows he has to keep learning all the time and hopefully he can do well in his first full season.”

Cover photo courtesy of Brendan Monaghan Photography