Cillian Sheridan departs Kilmarnock for Cyprus

Whilst there will be several Irish players on the move during this summer’s transfer window, few will follow in the footsteps of former Celtic striker, Cillian Sheridan.

The 24-year old, who has been capped three times at senior level for Republic of Ireland, will depart Scottish side Kilmarnock to join APOEL Nicosia, who play in the Cypriot First Division, on an initial one year contract, with the option of a further season.

Sheridan, who scored ten goals for Kilmarnock last season, found himself frozen out of the first team picture at Rugby Park during the latter stages of the campaign, and is understood to have welcomed the opportunity to join Cyprus’ most successful club.

Kilmarnock chairman, Michael Johnston said: “We've been in discussions about this for a couple of weeks. The player is keen for the chance to move on.

 “Obviously he was not involved in the team much towards the latter part of the season and he has decided this is the best option for his career.”

APOEL reached the quarter finals of the 2011/12 Champions League after an impressive group stage campaign after beating teams such as Zenit St Petersburg, Porto and Lyon, before bowing out to Real Madrid. They will feature once again in this year’s Champions League, and it is understood that former Hearts manager and current boss, Paulo Sergio, was keen to get Sheridan on board.

It will not be Sheridan’s first venture abroad, having spent two seasons with Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia after leaving Celtic in 2010. He has also spent time on loan at Motherwell, St Johnstone and Plymouth Argyle.