Kearney return lifts Candystripes

Derry City have been given a much-needed boost with the return to full fitness of winger Liam Kearney, who had been out of action with a broken leg.

The skilful midfielder joined the Candystripes at the start of the season after bringing his second stint with Cork City to an end and had an immediate impact at his new club.

Derry began the campaign with a six-game unbeaten run in the league and it looked as though Kearney was going to have a big part to play for Stephen Kenny’s side before he got injured.

The former Shelbourne ace was eager to make his return, but knew that he could not force an early comeback in case his broken leg had not fully healed.

However, he was given the green light recently and slotted straight back into the Derry side with a goal in the 3-0 victory over Dundalk.

“I’m thrilled with Liam. He’s had a difficult settling in period. He was starting to find a bit of form when he broke his leg,” Kenny is quoted as saying by the Derry Journal.

“Breaking your leg is difficult, especially being up here away from Cork and his family. It can be difficult and it’s a long journey back.

“He always has a great attitude and the players love him. He’s very popular and a real good type of player to have around the club so I’m delighted he got his goal against Dundalk.

“He did well when he came on and was taken down for a penalty, and he got his goal, so fair play to him.”