Clubs swap players in their bid to build strongest side

Robert O’Reilly

League of Ireland's annual exchange of players has commenced

The annual League of Ireland transfer merry-go-round is now fully
underway with both Shamrock Rovers and St. Patrick’s Athletic
exchanging players.

Shamrock Rovers have completed the signings of Mark Quigley from Sligo
and Sean O’Connor from St. Pat’s on two year deals.

Quigley, who was recently named the PFAI Player of the Year, is set to
play for his fifth club in five seasons following one year stays at
St. Pat’s, Bohemians, Dundalk, Sligo and now Shamrock Rovers.

It is understood that the striker turned down a potential move to FC
Dallas in the MLS in favour of staying at home in Ireland.

The Dubliner said to the Irish Times 
“I’ve moved around a lot. It is good to get back to Dublin, having
been in Dundalk and Sligo,” said Quigley, who previously had a short,
unsuccessful spell with the Tallaght club.

“I have a two-year deal and I’m delighted with that. I want some
stability, to try and kick on and stay here as long as I can.”

O’Connor will join up with his former assistant manager at St. Pat’s,
Trevor Croly, as Rovers look set to build a formidable side to
challenge for the league title following a disastrous campaign.

Moving in the opposite direction will be winger Killian Brennan who
has ended his Hoops nightmare by signing for the Inchicore side.

Brennan endured a frustrating spell with Rovers following successful,
trophy-laden stays at both Derry and Bohemians where the winger won
two league titles and two FAI cups.

The club has also confirmed that team captain Conor Kenna and
midfielder Chris Forrester have committed themselves to the club for
the 2013 season.

St. Pat’s are expected to announce more signings in the coming weeks
to combat the loss of two of last year’s star performers, O’Connor and
James Chambers.