Sligo Rovers sign Ollie Denham from Cardiff City and extend Ed McGinty's loan from Oxford United

Sligo Rovers have announced two moves with the permanent signing of centre-back Ollie Denham from Cardiff City and the extension of goalkeeper Ed McGinty's loan from Oxford United until the end of the 2024 season.

Denham has committed to an 18-month deal, extending his stay at the Showgrounds until the end of 2025.

The former Manchester United youth player initially joined Rovers on a six-month loan and has quickly become a key player, making 21 appearances so far this season.

"It's great to get the deal over the line. I've been really happy here in Sligo since day one," Denham said.

"I'm looking to kick on now under John Russell and the staff. I've enjoyed every minute of it so far."

Denham praised the competitive environment at Sligo, saying, "We have a good squad of players and I think competition is good for everyone because it pushes you. Everyone in that position is capable of stepping up when asked."

Rovers boss John Russell is equally enthusiastic about the signing.

"I’m delighted Ollie has agreed to sign a permanent contract. He has been a brilliant addition to our team this season," Russell said.

"He is a player of immense quality who I know will continue to improve and get better."

In another positive move for the club, Sligo Rovers have secured the extension of Ed McGinty's loan from Oxford United. The goalkeeper has kept eight clean sheets in this year's Premier Division.

McGinty, who first joined Rovers in 2016, expressed his satisfaction with the extension.

"I'm delighted to get it done," he said. "It's great to be able to move on now and stick with Rovers and with John Russell."

Reflecting on his decision to stay, McGinty added, "I'm ambitious and I want to challenge myself and it felt right to stay in Sligo. I feel the love from the supporters and the people of Sligo and the club is in my heart at this stage."

Manager John Russell highlighted McGinty's importance to the team.

"We have the best goalkeeper in Ireland," Russell stated.

"He has been a big presence for us both on and off the pitch so I'm delighted he has agreed to extend his loan to the end of this season."

Russell is confident about the future, noting, "Understandably, there was a lot of interest in Ed. But we worked very hard to keep him. What's most exciting for me is that there is more to come from Ed. He has the right mentality and is driven to succeed."

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