Rovers sign McAllister while trio of young players re-sign

Shamrock Rovers have announced the signing of midfielder David McAllister while also completing first senior deals for Dean Dillon, Aaron Bolger and Luke Kiely.

McAllister, who arrives in South Dublin from League 2 side Stevenage, explained his delight at joining the Hoops shortly after Wednesday’s announcement.

“I am delighted to sign here today, I've chatted both to Stephen McPhail and Stephen Bradley and I'm really excited about the future here at Rovers. They sat me down and showed me the plans. I've really bought into the future at Rovers and I'm absolutely delighted to be a part of it. I’m raring to get going now in pre-season.

“I know a number of the Rovers squad, in particular Paul Corry with whom I've had a few battles with in games in England. We have a good blend of experience along with the younger lads on their first pro contracts and I'm looking forward to giving the benefit of my experience to the younger lads here at Rovers.

McAllister, who also had spells with Drogheda, St Pat’s and Shelbourne, concluded with a quote for the Shamrock Rovers faithful.

“I'm delighted to sign for the club and I can't wait to get out on the pitch at Tallaght Stadium, the best stadium in the league, to play in front of the Hoops fans and win trophies!”

Hoops boss Stephen Bradley also had his say following the arrival of the 27 year-old to Tallaght Stadium.

“I am delighted to get it over the line now. It's been a long process getting this deal over the line and we're delighted with the type of midfielder we're signing - Dave adds to what is now a very experienced midfield in our squad. Dave has a lot of experience from the league of Ireland and away in England so we're absolutely delighted to sign him here today."

Bolger and Kiely, both midfielders, figured regularly for the Hoops towards the end of the 2016 campaign, while Dillon, an intimidating forward, is still waiting for his first taste of competitive action after playing for the first team in a friendly with Leeds United at Tallaght Stadium last summer.