Foran and Crowley depart

Both of County Louth’s Premier Division sides have bid farewell to members of their playing squad in the past 24 hours. Dundalk defender Derek Foran confirmed via Twitter that he would not be re-signing with the Lilywhites in 2013, while a few miles south Drogheda United parted ways with their 2012 captain Paul Crowley.

Foran forged his reputation as a reliable centre back at Bray Wanderers before a move to Sligo Rovers in 2010. But Derek’s opportunities at Sligo were limited by the form of Gavin Peers and Jason McGuinness. In his two years at the Showgrounds Derek made 20 league appearances before signing for Dundalk in 2012. In what was a difficult year for Dundalk, Derek made 23 league appearances.

Paul Crowley enjoyed a more successful season at Drogheda, captaining Mick Cooke’s team to second place in the league and also leading the side to an EA Sports Cup win. Having previously played for Shamrock Rovers, Dublin City, Waterford United, UCD, Dundalk and St Patrick’s Athletic, Paul returned for a second spell at Drogheda in January 2012 and scored two goals in 22 league appearances last term.