New Lilywhites settling in at Oriel

Dundalk FC held their ''2012 Season Launch Night'' in Oriel Park On Thursday night where the club officially announced Fyffes as their main sponsors, unveiled the new home jersey and announced Chris Shields as club captain. Local youngster Stephen McDonnell will be vice-captain.

Speaking to extratime.ie, Shields said he was delighted to be given the 'honour' of being club captain at the club after settling in well at Oriel Park and was delighted to sign on with new manager Seán McCaffrey.

"It's a massive honour for me. To be captain of this club at such a young age is a real honour. I had been captain at Bray but only for a game here and there when Gary Dempsey had been out, but to have it on a full-time basis means alot to me.

"I have settled in really well I think. It helps when you know a few lads and with Shane, Derek and Gaz, it makes it alot easier to be part of the place. I was delighted when I heard from Seán.  I had a few offers on the table to stay in Dublin but the offer I got her stood out really and felt it was time for a change."

Shields' teammate Gareth Coughlan was also equally happy to sign join McCaffrey's squad for the new season.

"It's great to have the opportunity to get back. I got a bad break two years ago and to be given the opportunity to get back into the game. When I got the call I knew what my answer would be."

Coughlan who has been joined at Oriel by former Bray teammates Shields and Derek Foran, has been happy with his time here so far and is hopeful ahead of the new season.

"Pre-season has been great. It's a good squad and it hasn't been too difficult to settle. The facilities are the best in the country I think and that has helped me settle in fairly quickly. I am hopeful of playing a few games and seeing the team do well, you never know where we might end up!"

Another of the winter recruits John Mountney was also complimentary of the facilities and feels that his switch from the West has been a smooth one.

"The facilities here are second to none. The gym, this place and even the pitch. I have no problem with the pitch. I think it's great. I am used to it being on the FAI/FAS course. It was hard to leave Mervue but I think I have made the right move. I know Seán and was delighted to be given the opportunity. The step up to the Premier is going to be tough but that's what you want to do, test yourself against the best and make the steps up."

While some players will be setting their targets on league positions, the Galway youngster has more personal goals.

"I just want to play games. I love playing and I hope to get a few games under my belt and maybe score a few more goals than last year too!"

Dundalk begin their League campaign away to Monaghan United in just seven days time!