Rovers sign former Ireland international
By William O’ Connor
SHAMROCK Rovers has signed former Ireland international Joey O’Brien.
The Hoops made the announcement this afternoon (Saturday, January 27) after the player agreed terms with the club.
The former West Ham United and Bolton Wanderers player will be a huge addition to Stephen Bradley’s side this season as they aim to close the gap on champions Cork City.
O’Brien’s last game for West Ham was in February 2016 when the Hammers beat Liverpool in the FA Cup.
The Drimnagh lad’s signing is a big capture for Rovers who begin their campaign in Tallaght Stadium against Dundalk on February 23.
Speaking after the signing, Joey O’Brien said: “I’m buzzing to be here and get going.
“It happened over a short period of time, I made contact with the club and luckily it got over the line.
“I was moving back home with my family so it was a logical thing.
“I’m a Rovers fan and I wanted to get playing and come back here. This is the place to be.”
He added: “It’s about becoming part of the squad, I definitely bring the age up!
“I like to think I’ve been around a while and have good experience of playing at certain levels.
“Hopefully the way I go about training and off the pitch as well, some of the younger lads can learn from working with me.”
According to Shamrock Rovers’ Head Coach Stephen Bradley, O’Brien is a “great signing” for the Tallaght-based club.
“I think he brings a great experience to the squad”, Bradley said.
“He’s played at such a high level throughout his career. With the group we have, he’s just the right character and right quality.”
Bradley added: “Any player we’ve signed this year we’ve been thinking can he play in two or three positions.
“We haven’t nailed down anyone in certain positions.
“Everyone can see how good Ethan Boyle is so bringing in Joey will only help the likes of Ethan and the centre-backs, because Joey can play there or midfield as well.
“That was part of the reason of why he appealed to us, he can cover a lot of areas.
“We’re all well aware of Joey’s history with injuries and Joey was very open and honest about it as well. We went into this with our eyes open.
“If we can get Joey on the pitch and look after him in training he’ll be a massive asset to the club, what he brings to the dressing room and the training pitch. It’s the whole package.”
