McKinley signs for the Mallards

Ballinamallard in preseason action in 2017

Ballinamallard in preseason action in 2017 Credit: Larry McQuillan (ETPhotos)

Ballinamallard United have secured the signing of former Republic of Ireland Under 17 midfielder Ronan McKinley from Derry City.

 

The 19 year old suffered a knee injury in 2019 which required two operations and has seen him spend over two years getting back to fitness. In signing for the Fermanagh based outfit, McKinley is reunited with his former international team mate Sean McEvoy- the former Bray Wanderers midfielder is now plying his trade in the NIFL  and recently won the Cavan Senior Football Championship with Ramor United.

 

For his part, McKinley has spent the past few months with Derry City Reserves and speaking with Ballinamallard United’s Twitter account, he expressed his delight at signing for the club and working under long serving manager Harry McConkey, “From the first time I visited Ferney Park I was drawn to Harry’s outlook on the game, the style of football they played, along with the welcome and overall club atmosphere. I’m really looking forward to playing my part in the club’s progression.”

 

His new manager McConkey, speaking to the same source, was enthusiastic about his new arrival, “ I’m delighted to have agreed the signing of Ronan, I realised his talent when he appeared for the Republic of Ireland against Belgium in the European Championships.”

 

“He is a technically gifted, versatile midfielder that has great potential. I hope he can become a central part of our push for the run-in of this season.”

 

    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