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 

Newry City AFC are delighted to announce that John McGovern has been called up to the Northern Ireland U19 squad for their forthcoming NI International training camp next week.

NCAFC Manager Darren Mullen commented “This is a terrific honour for John, his family and the club but one that’s well deserved. His performances this season for a lad of 16 have been of a really high standard and were bound to attract attention at some stage. I spoke to Stephen Frail who manages both the NI U17s & U19s after our game on Saturday and he was impressed enough to want to see him at closer quarters. I’ve no doubt he’s well fit to perform at that level and hope that he continues his progress both with Newry and NI.”

The club would like to wish John & the rest of the NI squad all the best for next week as they meet both Liverpool U19 and Swansea U19 at Lilleshall.