Ciaran Kelly wants to play a leading role in Bradford City’s promotion push after joining the Bantams from Bohemians.
Mark Hughes has pounced for the free agent centre-back who was unveiled by the League Two club today, although he cannot play until January 1.
Kelly, who also had spells with St Patrick's Athletic and Drogheda United, has signed a deal until 2025 and said: “It feels great to be here. This is a massive club and I’m determined to play a part in its history.
“I’ve been in Ireland for a number of years now, and had success at the clubs I’ve been at.
“I’ve played in finals and big games in Europe, but have come here to stamp my authority on the English leagues and be a part of something special.
“I always want to challenge myself, and see this as the next step up in my career. Hopefully, I can achieve great things here.”
And Kelly, 24, continued: “I’ve been to a few games already and witnessed the atmosphere at a big game.
“The supporters are right behind the club, and looking around at the stadium fills me with excitement. I cannot wait to get on the pitch and hopefully do the fans proud.”
Bantams boss Hughes - the Manchester United legend and former Manchester City manager - feels Kelly will be an asset when the window opens.
Bradford City are seventh in League Two and occupy one of the playoff spots but eight teams below them are within a six-point touching distance.
Hughes said: “Ciaran has attracted a lot of interest from teams at this level and above, but had his heart set on joining us here at Bradford City.
“We’ve been monitoring him for a number of months, and have travelled over to Ireland to meet with him and his family who were all very excited about the move.
“He’s a left-sided centre-half who is fiercely competitive but also fits in well to the style of play we have adopted.
“He’ll start training with his new team-mates this week, as we look forward to introducing him properly to the action in the New Year.”
Meanwhile, Darren Murphy has been appointed assistant manager of Finn Harps as new boss Dave Rogers plots a quick-fire promotion push.
Murphy was most recently first team coach and academy head at Crusaders and won two NIFL Premiership titles as Linfield first-team coach.
He also managed Dungannon Swifts and was underage manager and Elite Performance Coach with the Irish Football Association.
Murphy said: “Prior to Dave being appointed, he asked if I’d be interested in coming in full-time as part of the management and coaching team.
“I’ve built up a very strong relationship with Dave over the last 15 plus years.”
Rogers, the former title-winning Shelbourne defender, was appointed as Ollie Horgan’s successor 10 days ago and is tasked with getting the club back into the top flight.
Rogers said: “I’m delighted to bring in Darren as my assistant coach. Myself and Darren have built up a real strong relationship over the past 15 years.
“To add another UEFA Pro License coach to our club is a real coup. His contacts and experience within the game are second to none.”
Elsewhere in the First Division, Bray Wanderers have signed fullback Max Murphy for a second spell at the club after time with Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers.
READ NEXT:
Roy Keane stuns fans with England reference during World Cup quarter-final
Declan Rice's pre-World Cup decision comes back to haunt him as he heads home with empty suitcase
Garry Ringrose reveals Leinster's 'no excuses' mantra for Racing romp after travel nightmare
Josh Warrington loses world title to Luis Alberto Lopez in gruelling clash
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
