McGowan signs for Galway United

Galway United have completed the signing of former Barnsley and Limerick player Jeff McGowan.

The striker spent two-and-a-half years with Barnsley before returning to Ireland in 2018. 

He had a trial at Dundalk before signing for Limerick for the 2018 Premier Division season.

The versatile forward made a handful of appearances for Limerick and now makes the move to Alan Murphy’s Galway.

Murphy spoke to his club website about McGowan’s flexibility and explained that he spoke to former Dundalk manager Stephen Kenny about his trial at the Lilywhites.

“Jeff is really dedicated and has a huge ambition to further his career and is another perfect fit for ProjectDNA,” Murphy said. 

“He has been training with us for a number of months and has really displayed his talents. 

“In terms of his flexibility alone, he can play in numerous positions in the final third,” he said.

“Speaking to Stephen Kenny about his time on trial there, it was probably just a case of Dundalk being a bit further ahead in their development. 

“Stephen had good things to say about Jeff and believes he has potential. 



“It’s always difficult for a player coming back from England at a young age, but I really believe that Jeff needs somebody to get the best out of him and to have confidence in him,” Murphy explained.

McGowan explained his personal goals for the season and that the aim as a club is push forward in 2019.

“My main aim for this year is to show everyone what I can do on the pitch and I definitely think this is the right club for me to do that at,” McGowan said. 

“I play up top, but I’m more than happy to play anywhere across the front. As long as I’m playing and being involved, that’s the main thing. 

“I know a few of the lads up here and they’ve all been brilliant to me, hopefully we will gel together this year and do well. 

“Everyone wants to push forward and that comes from Alan and all the coaching staff. Everyone around the club wants to shove on in 2019,” he said.