Former Ireland under-21 international completes Waterford United takeover

Waterford United have announced that former Republic of Ireland under-21 international Lee Power has completed his takeover of the club.

Power, who is also the current owner and chairman of Swindon Town, takes control with immediate effect from longtime chairman John O'Sullivan.

London native Power played football professionally in England and Scotland over the course of a nine-year career in the 1990s. Qualified through a Waterford born grandfather, Lee Power made Republic of Ireland youth, Under 21 and B level international appearances.

"I am delighted to support Lee as the new owner of the club and I look forward to the success that is sure to come,” said O'Sullivan in a statement.

“I would like to thank all the committee members over the years who have helped to keep things going during a tough time for the region."

Power said: "I am delighted to be involved with a club of such great potential and one which has a wonderful footballing history.

“I hope the supporters and the business community will get behind what is a new beginning for Waterford United. I see this as a very exciting, long-term project. The facilities at the RSC, as well as those at the WIT Sports Arena are top class.

“I wish to thank FAI Chief Executive John Delaney for all his assistance over recent months, and I look forward to the coming season with great anticipation.

“I would also like to pay tribute to outgoing Chairman, John O’Sullivan and I would like to thank him for his assistance with the change of ownership.”

Delaney added: “Waterford United is a great club, it has outstanding facilities and it is in the heart of a football stronghold.

“The region has produced some great players including the likes of the Fitzgeralds, the Hales, the Hunts, Daryl Murphy, John O’Shea and Jim Beglin, and through the great structures in the county it continues to produce a high level of underage internationals.

“I’m delighted that a great football man in Lee Power is coming in to bring the club back to a highly competitive level, and replicate past glories.”