Dario Castelo backs Frantz Pierrot to thrive with Premier Division Drogheda United

Frantz Pierrot lines out with Drogheda United in pre-season

Frantz Pierrot lines out with Drogheda United in pre-season Credit: Larry McQuillan (ETPhotos)

Athlone Town boss Dario Castelo reckons his departing striker Frantz Pierrot is primed to shine in the Premier Division this season with Drogheda United. 

Haitian forward Pierrot, 24, scored 20 league goals for the Blue and Black last season en route to the play-offs - and then netted two more in the play-offs itself.

His exit sees Castelo having to find a new man to lead his line this season, but he is pleased with Pierrot’s success.  

“We lost 20 goals with Frantz leaving but I am very happy for him,” he told extratime.com. 

“I wish all the best for him. He is a good example for young players to show that if they come, anything can happen. 

“Frantz is a very good player and he has everything to be successful at that level. I am here to celebrate his success.”

PIerrot’s exit is also a success story for Athlone following their recent link up with Valeo FC, a US-based academy that are now the Co Westmeath club’s main jersey sponsor.

“It’s very important for Athlone Town,” Castelo said on the arrangement between the two clubs. 

“Valeo is a big academy in Boston and gives opportunities to ambitious players - and for the club it is very important. 

“The administration of Athlone Town and the supporters love football - as do I. 



“The Valeo administration does as well and everyone is happy with the way that things are rolling. We are very excited for the season.”

While Athlone have added a host of foreign imports to their squad this term, they have also recruited some with League of Ireland experience to their first-team set-up.

Dylan Hand is the most notable arrival, while goalkeeper Enda Minogue and midfield duo Daniel McKenna and Aaron Connolly are expected to play a key role this season.

And Castelo knows the importance of having that core within his side.

“I tried to get some more players in from Ireland during the transfer window to get us the experience that we need,” he explained. 

“We needed to build the team with more balance and young players.”



But Athlone’s first real acid test of the season may be one of their toughest as Wexford visit the Co Westmeath club on the opening night. 

“Wexford are a very good game to start the season with,” Castelo added. 

“They have a very good team and coach - and the facilities they have are great. Let’s play and start. Let’s see what the season brings. 

“We always play to win but we know that anything can happen in football. Our motivation is very strong.”

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