Gavan Holohan signs for Waterford

Free-spending Premier Division new boys Waterford have bolstered their already impressive ranks with the signing of former Cork City and Galway United man Gavan Holohan on a one-year-deal at the RSC.

Making 33 appearances for the Tribesmen last season, Holohan stood out as one of the better performers for the Eamonn Deacy Park faithful and managed to bag 7 goals for Shane Keegan’s charges and despite reported interest from cross-channel clubs, the Kilkenny native has decided to move closer to his home county.

Speaking on his move to the Blues, Holohan said he is relishing the prospect of working alongside his former coach Alan Reynolds again after a fruitful spell at Turners Cross with the current Waterford head coach.

“There were a few things that attracted me to Waterford. I worked with Alan Reynolds at Cork and always got on really well with him. I liked how he went about things, so I felt he was someone I’d like to work with again; someone who could get the best out of me.

Holohan referred to the ambition of the club which made his decision far easier to join forces with the Blues after spells with Drogheda United, Cork City and Galway United.

“Obviously the club is heading in the right direction with the quality of players signed already and also with its fan base growing and growing again. The set up and facilities are second to none down here, so it’s a great environment in which to play football. Being a Kilkenny man, it’s only down the road for family and friends to come to see the home games, which is a big bonus for me.”

The Kilkenny man said he is looking forward to performing in front of what is an ever-growing fanbase down at the RSC, as locals are turning out in their droves to support their club.

“I’m looking forward to meeting and performing in front of the Blues’ fans. I’d see myself as a creative attack minded midfielder who will be hoping to chip in with a lot of assists and goals. Most importantly however, I plan to work hard for the team and the rest should fall into place after that.

“We have to get off to a good start first of all and that will dictate what kind of season we have, so if we can do that it’s about getting as high up the table as possible and pushing for a European place.”

Also having a say on the move was First Team Head Coach Alan Reynolds who spoken on his delight to be able to attract a Premier Division proven quality player to his ranks for 2018

“I’m delighted that he has decided to join us and we’re happy to have a player of his experience on board ahead of the new season. He has already spent four seasons playing in the Premier Division – experience that will be invaluable for us.”

Reynolds anticipates that Holohan will be a vital cog in his team’s wheel for next season as the former Drogheda United star will look to link the deep lying midfield players with the more attack-minded players at the RSC.   

“I worked with him during my time with Cork City. He is an exciting midfield player who will link the deeper lying midfielders with our front players. He has a proven eye for goal and for creating chances for team-mates; the fans will really enjoy the player we have brought on board.”

Reynolds also gave an update on how his Waterford FC squad is shaping up for next season and the former Cork City assistant manager said that the club is still keeping their eyes on a number of targets before they get going again.

“Our squad is taking shape now for 2018. Gavan is another strong addition, but we still have business to complete in the New Year. We are back in as a unit on the 3rd January and we are still running our eyes over a few options ahead of getting back on the pitch then.”