Cleary becomes a Scottish Saint

Dan Cleary in action for Dundalk

Dan Cleary in action for Dundalk Credit: Ben Whitley (ETPhotos)

St Johnstone have announced the signing of central defender Daniel Cleary. The 25 year old central defender joins the Perth based outfit after spending the past four years at the heart of the Dundalk defence. 

 

He began his career at the Liverpool Academy before a switch to Birmingham City and a subsequent loan spell from the Blues to Solihull Motors before a trial at Shamrock Rovers ahead of signing for Dundalk.

 

In his first season at Oriel Park in 2018 he won a Premier Division and FAI Cup medal with Stephen Kenny’s Lilywhites before another title success and League Cup victory in 2019 followed by Europa League Group Stage games and another FAI Cup winner’s medal in 2020. He amassed 118 appearances for Dundalk FC scoring nine times for the Louth club.

 

Speaking with club media, perthstjohnstone.co.uk, the 25 year old expressed his delight at signing for the Scottish side, This is a great move for me and I can't wait to get started.I had other offers to consider but St Johnstone is the perfect challenge for me at this stage of my career.”

 

"The manager (Callum Davidson) made me feel really wanted and he is the type of manager I want to play for. I was over for a short visit last month and it was good to work with the manager, the coaching staff and the players. I was impressed with the set-up.


 



"I'll be back over permanently when training starts this week and we all know how important the next few weeks and months are going to be. We know it is going to take hard work and dedication as the starting points to get points on the board and climb the table.”

 

"I know I am ready for that challenge and I need to impress the manager and the staff to show I am worthy of a place in the team.”

 

    About Tom O'Connor

    Dundalk based reporter following the league since Monaghan United’s goalless draw against Athlone Town in 1996. Special interest in education and underage football. Shortlisted for the 2018 FAI Communications Award for series on Life beyond … View Full Profile