Northern Ireland international Conor McLaughlin returns to Fleetwood Town

Northern Ireland international Conor McLaughlin has found a new club following his departure from Sunderland this summer as he has rejoined former club Fleetwood Town on a short term deal until January. 

McLaughlin has won 44 caps for Northern Ireland and spent five years with the Cod Army before moving to Millwall in 2017 and then moving to Wearside in 2019.

The defender  was part of the Sunderland squad that won the Papa John’s Trophy last campaign and came off the bench in the final against Tranmere at Wembley.

McLaughlin was part of the Fleetwood Town team in the first-ever season in the EFL back in 2012 and then went on to become one of the most-capped players since then amassing 200 appearances for the club in all competitions.

On returning to Highbury Stadium the 30 year old told the club’s website, “When Fleetwood gave me a call and said that I could come in and get something done, I didn’t have to think about it. I had a great time when I was here before and that’s part of the reason why I’ve come back.

“There’s a new group of players, but a few familiar ones like Pondy [Nathan Pond], Youl [Mawene], Baz [Nicholson], and all so it’s good to see all of them again.

“It’s a bit strange being back but it’s good to see some familiar faces from when I was here the last time. I’m just looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and playing football again.

“The gaffer Simon Grayson said for me to come in and get myself fit and hopefully get involved as soon as possible. The lads have done well in the last few weeks, and we’ve got a good squad here, with some good young players coming through the ranks as well so I will just try and help when I can. 

“I’ve changed as a player, and as a person since leaving here four years ago. Obviously, I’m older now and there are a few really good, experienced pros in the dressing room there to help the younger ones and it looks like it is all going well.

“I managed to get one of my first international caps whilst at Fleetwood – the shirt is still up in the bar. It was against Uruguay; I got my debut earlier on in my career but was the first international at the club. I’m on 44 now but I’d love to get to that number 50!



“I noticed a few Northern Irish accents when I came back in, I was speaking to Barry Baggley and I didn’t realise he only lives two minutes away from me back home so it’s good to see. 

“When I first came in, I think I was one of the only Northern Irish lads who had been at the club in a while so to see the group coming through at the moment, it’s brilliant to see.

“Sometimes it’s hard to get noticed over there but the club has been brilliant in giving them a chance and they can now push on and help the team in whatever way possible.”

Fleetwood are currently 20th in League one and McLaughlin could be in line to make his debut in his second stint at the club after the international break on Saturday October 16 as they host Crewe Alexandra. 

 

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