Bohemians Receive Konopka Green Light
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Bohemians have received international clearance for American goalkeeper Chris Konopka, having signed the player during the recent transfer window.
The club had already agreed a one year deal with the former Kansas City Wizards stopper during the recent transfer window and a work permit had been secured. The final green light was given by the FAI today.
The 22-year-old joined up with Pat Menlon’s squad during pre-season, having previously held trials with both Charlton Athletic and Cardiff City.
Konopka, a US under-23 international, goes straight into the squad for Friday night’s encounter against St Patrick’s Athletic at Dalymount Park.
He becomes the third American player in Ireland, joining Ryan Guy at St Pat's and Max Cream at Shelbourne.
Speaking to the US media last week, Konopka said: “I am very excited and extremely honoured to become part of such a fabled club like Bohs. The whole organisation has treated me first class ever since I arrived in Dublin. I am positive that being here playing in Europe as a member of Bohs will help advance my professional development.”
Konopka faces a tough fight for the number one jersey at Dalymount Park, with last year’s Premier League goalkeeper of the year, Brian Murphy, already at the club.
“I’m going to work hard every day and contribute in whatever way I can to help Bohs take home a league championship this season and to help us advance far into all the Cups and European competitions that we will play in. I think the team will be very competitive this year. All the guys have a great attitude,” Konopka added.
