Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of striker Mikey Drennan.
The former Aston Villa and Shamrock Rovers man makes his return to the SSE Airtricity League with the Bit O’ Red after a two-year absence.
Mikey Drennan said: “It has been with me for the last couple of years about returning to the league.
“It has come up a few times, but I wasn’t 100% sure or ready to commit. I didn’t want to disappoint anyone by not being able to give my all, or to waste anyone’s time. I feel now I’m ready and this is a great fit for me.
“It’s four months to take a fantastic chance to get back into league football and full-time football. I’ve had two years out of the professional game and I’m delighted to be able to return today. There were other clubs speaking to me and it was flattering to have that, but as soon as I came up here I was made feel really welcome by everyone and it was the club I wanted to sign for.
“Ger (Lyttle) was brilliant, I can see why people speak about his man-management. All of the players really welcomed me in too as soon as I walked through the door so you can tell it’s a good dressing-room. I feel fit but I’ll need a couple of weeks for sharpness and to get that bit extra fitness that comes with league matches.
“I’ve seen Sligo Rovers on Soccer Republic this season and they’ve been struggling for goals. I’d like to bring something to try to change that.
“It was a tough decision to go for it and return to football. After two years it was probably always going to be. But I feel I’m in a place to do it and I can’t wait to put on the Sligo Rovers jersey, play in The Showgrounds and let’s see what can come from it.”
Gerard Lyttle said: “I’m delighted to welcome Mikey to Sligo Rovers. We had to act very quickly to get it done. I’ve been tracking him for a couple of weeks and there was interest from a couple of other clubs. We invited him up and he was able to play in the friendly last night. We made him the offer and it was signed this morning so I think that speaks volumes for both parties.
“Our club is perfect for him. I have a lot of respect for how Mikey has conducted himself. When he left Shamrock Rovers, he could have easily stayed there and ignored things, but he didn’t. He tackled things head on, he was open, he was brave when being so open, and we’re really thrilled he has chosen us to make his return to the league.
“We pride ourselves at the club at being a great opportunity for any player and environment for them to flourish. He sees that I think. We want to build a squad here full of quality.
“I think it’s a great move for the club. Even in the game he played, albeit it was a low-key friendly, he showed the movement, the touches, that clear ability he possesses. He plays off a striker or as one and offers a big goal threat too.
“There is a good level of fitness there. It’s a huge boost for us and he comes into contention in July. I think our fans will be really pleased with the signing. It’s going to take him a small bit of time to adjust to playing Premier Division football again but I think he’ll prove to be a great signing for us.”
