Maher signs for Drogheda United

Drogheda United have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2014 season with the signing of Stephen Maher. Maher was a part of the league-winning St. Patrick’s Athletic squad last season but Liam Buckley decided against re-signing the Dublin born midfielder for this term.

Maher has had a long road back to fitness after breaking his leg last September after coming on as a substitute in Pats’ 1-0 win against Derry. The former Dundalk, Monaghan, and Yeovil Town player had some notable performances for the Saints in 2013 against Sligo and another old club Shamrock Rovers, but missed the latter months of the season due to his injury. After his club featured in a plethora of cup finals last season, Drogs manager Robbie Horgan will be hoping the league winner will be able to push them one step further in 2014 and pick up a trophy.

Speaking on the Drogheda United website, Horgan said of his new signing; “We're getting a quality player in Stephen and I'm over the moon. I think we were probably thin in the squad particularly with our current suspensions and a couple of injuries."

Maher gives the Drogs a lot of options due to his versatility. Primarily a central midfielder, Maher also has experience playing at right back as Horgan noted; “St. Pat's didn't sign him last season without good reason. He was very unfortunate to break his leg towards the end of the season but he's back to full fitness now and will give me options in midfield and also at right-back if necessary."

Maher joins the Louth club ahead of their trip to Dalymount Park to play Bohemians. Both clubs won their opening fixtures of the season by three goals, with Drogheda trouncing great rivals and last season’s runners up Dundalk 4-1 at home.

The midfielder enjoyed his 26^th birthday the week before the league kicked off and has also played for the Republic of Ireland under-21 team in the 2008 Intercontinental Cup.