Adam O’Reilly on signing for Derry City: ‘I want to play at the highest level possible’

Adam O'Reilly in action for St. Pat's last July

Adam O'Reilly in action for St. Pat's last July Credit: Paul Dolan (ETPhotos)

Derry City have announced the latest new player to sign for the club ahead of the 2023 season as the Candystripes secured the services of the talented Adam O'Reilly.

The 21-year-old midfielder joins on a two-year deal from Preston North End. He is the latest players signed by Ruaidhri Higgins joining the likes of Ben Doherty, Tadgh Ryan and Colm Whelan as new faces at the club.

“I was really impressed with what Ruaidhri had to say,” said O’Reilly. “I want to play at the highest level possible and I have to challenge myself to do that.

“There is an awful lot of quality in the squad and there will be real competition for spaces. It is also clear that there is a great bunch of lads at the club and looks like a good dressing room to be part of.”

The Cork-born player cut his teeth at Ringmahon Rangers before joining the Lancashire outfit on trial with their academy. He impressed enough to be signed on a professional contract. His sole appearance came in a league match with Aston Villa.

He spent much of his time with the club out on loan with Hyde United, Waterford, Bamber Bridge and two spells at Stalybridge Celtic,

In January last year he arrived at St. Patrick’s Athletic. This was initially for a period of five months, but was extended until the end of the season. He made 34 appearances with the Inchicore side and scored twice.

He helped the Saints earn European qualification with a fourth place finish in the league. He was twice voted player of the month and named as young player of the year by the supporters.

City have stated that they expect to announce more members of the squad in due course. The club start their season when they take on Shamrock Rovers in the President’s Cup Final on 10th of February.  

About Philip Morrissey

Philip is a Cork City fan for his entire adult life. From bad times to good, whether this was taking on some major European sides or in the First Division. Philip went back to college … View Full Profile