Waterford sign former Ireland international Damien Delaney following his Cork City release

Waterford have announced the signing of former Crystal Palace and Republic of Ireland International Damien Delaney for the 2019 season following his departure from Cork City.

In a career spanning 20 years, Delaney journeyed from local club Cork City to the heights of English football, where he made 138 appearances for the Eagles.

The former Leicester City, Hull City and Ipswich Town defender played in an FA Cup final for Palace, against Manchester United in 2016, which they lost 2-1.

After returning to Ireland for a brief spell with the Rebel Army in the second half of last season, Delaney will start anew on a one-year deal with the Blues.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” the 37-year-old told the Blues’ official website.

“I spoke to Alan [Reynolds] and he told me the plans he has for the club and what he wants to do here and I want to be part of it.

“I played against the club last season of course and the pitch is excellent and they were a good footballing side, and I feel I still have a lot to give so it’s great to be able to come in”

Drawing from the challenges ahead, including the club’s first experience of European football since 1986, Delaney said he could not wait for the European stage and the challenges ahead.

“Europe is massive for the club, too. The club did so well last season and deserve to be playing in Europe in 2019. I feel I can contribute to that and I’m really happy to do so.

“I finished with Cork in November and enjoyed Christmas but I can’t wait to be back at it, back to work and looking forward to the season ahead.”

Manager Reynolds added: “I’m delighted to be able to bring Damien to the club. He’s a top professional and he can see what we’re trying to do here.

“The experience that Damien will bring to the club is invaluable; he’s spent almost his whole career in the UK and the majority of the past five years playing in the Premier League.

“With European football this season, too, it was important to add experience to our squad to compliment other areas, and Damien fits the bill for us.”