O'Donnell makes Cork City switch

Stephen O'Donnell has joined Cork City on a two-year deal, the club has confirmed.

It was thought that the midfielder would join Sean Connor at Dundalk but Paul Doolin's offer has proved too hard to resist for the Galwegian

O'Donnell had already worked under Connor at Bohemians and also played an important role in the Phisboro club's double winning season in 2008.

The 23-year-old had lined-out in a couple of pre-season friendlies for newly promoted Dundalk but when Cork came calling, O'Donnell had a change of heart and has opted to move south.

Speaking to the club's official website, O'Donnell said: "I’m delighted to have joined Cork City. The pitch at Turner’s Cross is probably the best in the league, and whenever I’ve come down to play against Cork City in the past, it’s always been a tough game and a great atmosphere, so I can’t wait to be part of that.”

Having won the League title with Bohs last season, the midfielder said he is hopeful his new side can challenge for honours in the coming season. He said: “I had a good year at Bohs last year, and I would like to have similar success here at Cork City. There is a very good squad here and I think we can give the league title a good rattle this season. There are very good players all over the pitch here and I’m just looking forward to getting out there on the pitch, hopefully I can force my way into the team and we can set about challenging for honours this season.”

Meanwhile, Cork's Director of Media, Éanna Buckley confirmed that the club were not going to comment on former midfielder Gareth Farrelly's rant in the national media on Friday.