Adam O’Reilly joins Saints on loan from Preston North End

Adam O'Reilly

Adam O'Reilly Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)

St Patrick’s Athletic have completed the signing of Preston North End midfielder Adam O’Reilly on loan.

The Cork native made his Championship debut against Aston Villa in 2018 aged 17, having joined the Lancashire club from Ringmahon Rangers in 2016, but has yet to make another first-team appearance since then. 

The Republic of Ireland underage international has had loan spells at Hyde United, Stalybridge Celtic, Bamber Bridge and spent last year in the League of Ireland with Waterford FC.

He made 16 appearances for the Blues assisting for three goals. 

The 20-year-old spoke to the club’s media about the move.

"I'm delighted to have joined such a massive club,” said O’Reilly. “I've got some experience in the league already (with Waterford) and played against St Pat's. 

“The team did so well last year, winning the cup and finishing second in the league, so I'm really excited to be here.

“I think my spell at Waterford had something to do with my loan to St Pat's. I feel I did my best there and St Pat's got in touch with Preston and I couldn't really say no to the offer. I'm a box to box midfielder. I'll be hoping to add some goals and do my best to benefit the team and the club."

Manager Tim Clancy said that O’Reilly was a player he has followed closely. "Adam really impressed at Waterford in his loan spell last season and he is a player who I've been monitoring for quite a while. 

“He'll add a lot to our midfield options and myself and the coaching staff are looking forward to welcoming Adam to the group and working with him. He's exactly the type of player we want at the club."



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