Waterford announce the signing of Serge Atakayi to bolster their promotion push

Serge Atakayi on the ball and on the scoresheet for the Saints

Serge Atakayi on the ball and on the scoresheet for the Saints Credit: Martin Doherty (ETPhotos)

The Blues wasted no time in strengthening the squad for the second half of the season with attacker Serge Atakayi joining on loan from St. Patrick’s Athletic on Saturday.

The 24-year-old winger had made 25 appearances for the Saints, scoring five goals including the winner in first leg against CSKA Sofia in the third round of the UEFA Europa Conference League. 

The former Rangers attacker had struggled for game time under new manager Jon Daly and is a boost for Keith Long’s men who look to return to the Premier Division. 

Speaking to Waterford’s media team, Atakayi stated, “I’m really looking forward to getting on the pitch. I’ve enjoyed it so far since I’ve come in, the boys and staff have made me feel very welcome and I can’t wait for the first game next week.

“I’m here to work as hard as I can for the club and try to help the team as best as I can, and keep improving myself.

“I want to play games. I’m here to push everyone and get on the pitch as much as I can to help the club. I know Roland [Idowu] and all the boys have been very good since I’ve joined up and I can’t wait for next week.”

Head Coach Keith Long on the signing of Atakayi revealed, “We’re delighted to be able to bring Serge to the club. We’ve been on the lookout for the players to fit what we’re trying to do here and he’s a really exciting young player.

“He’s Premier Division quality and he’ll give us a good attacking option going forward and give us more depth in the squad with plenty of games still to play.”

There was also a departure for Waterford today as Wassim Aouachria left the club after making 13 appearances, scoring four goals. The striker had started the season with a bang grabbing an opening day hat trick but has struggled since being a bit time player after the arrival of Keith Long on the southeast coast. 

About Luke Jordan

Luke joined the extratime.com team in 2022 and is the current host of the extratime.com podcast.

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