Timlin commits to Candystripes for 2015

Recounting on a disappointing year at the Brandywell, one would be forgiven for overlooking the very few positives which the 2014 season brought to Derry City.

The list of negatives is long – much like the list of players to have come and gone.

The list of positives is a much shorter one, and surely sitting towards the top of that list is the signing of former Ipswich Town winger Mark Timlin, one of just four of Roddy Collins’ signings to have survived the full season.

The 19 year-old joined the Candystripes initially on a short-term deal, though his performances after Collins’ departure resulted in him being awarded a contract until the end of the season, and subsequently, he has agreed a deal to remain with City for the forthcoming campaign.

With both highs and lows in what has been a season of transition in Derry, the Buncrana native’s performances have been a rare bright spark – something he credits to current boss, Peter Hutton.

Speaking to ExtraTime.ie, Timlin said: “All in all, I enjoyed the experience. Obviously under Roddy, I was really frustrated and annoyed when I wasn’t making match-day squads. But since Peter has taken over, things have turned around. It’s huge when you know a manager trusts you, and especially with me being new to the club, that helped me greatly.

“Our league season was over pretty early with the start that we had. The fact that we got to the FAI Cup final doesn't take away from the fact it was a poor season so hopefully we can rectify it in the New Year, and have a strong league campaign and another cup run”, he said.

Timlin has had to battle for his place in the team with fellow new signing Stephen Dooley, as well as Michael Duffy and Joshua Daniels. But he insists that this competition is only good for both player and club.

“I had a good run in the team, and fortunately played in the European games, and I really enjoyed it. Towards the end of the season, Stephen was doing well and kept me out of my preferred position, but I was still happy enough with how it went.

“The fact that we have a young squad, and plenty of competition really helped me. As a young player going into a dressing room where there’s a good few young players around your age, it makes things a lot easier and I think that helped me settle massively.”

Having left Ipswich in January of this year, after injuries plagued his first year as a professional at the club, Timlin was pleasantly surprised with the League of Ireland upon his return home – though admitted harbouring hope of not being around too long.

“The standard of football in the league is really underrated. It took me a while to get settled in and find my feet. Obviously, the facilities aren't as good but that's because of the lack of finance available to clubs in the league.

“Opposition wise, some of the players you were up against were really top quality, and playing against the likes of Christy Fagan, Keith Fahey and Richie Towell showed you just how good the standard is.

“I think everyone strives to play at a higher level, and I’m no different. So in that sense, hopefully Derry City is a stepping stone for me – though for now, I’m delighted to have committed for next season.”