Manning signs for Galway FC

Galway FC have signed 17 year old Ryan Manning from Mervue United as Tommy Dunne has secured the signature of the exciting youngster.

Manning was one of Mervue’s stars in last season’s First Division campaign and was being courted by a number of English clubs.

A prolific goalscorer throughout his underage career with Mervue United he made his Airtricity league debut in the opening game of last season against Athlone Town as a 16 year old. He didn’t take long to open his senior account as he provided the winning goal in the club’s following game in the 2-1 win over Salthill Devon in the city derby game.

He went on to make 30 appearances for Mervue scoring nine times but it is his ability to create chances for others as well as his goal scoring abilities that will be valuable to the new Galway side.

Manning signed off his Mervue career on a high scoring four times for the club's Under 19 side in their final league game win over Longford Town two weeks ago as they claimed the Southern Division title.

Manager Dunne is encouraged that Manning’s signature has been secured. “It is brilliant for us as a new club to have Ryan on board, he is a real prospect. I think people really appreciate when good young players with talent and desire are at a club. I’m happy with the squad that is being put together. There is a nice blend of youth and experience.”

Dunne has also added two other former Mervue Utd players to his squad as goalkeeper Ger Hanley and defender Mike Elwood along with Westport Utd’s James O’Donnell have signed on for 2014, bringing the squad total to 21 players.

Galway FC host FAI Cup winners Sligo Rovers at Eamonn Deacy Park in their opening friendly game on Saturday evening at 7.30 p.m. but it has been announced on the club’s website that there will be an early Saturday morning pitch inspection at Eamonn Deacy Park.