4 Irish-based players who made the move to Britain in 2016:
Daryl Horgan (Dundalk to Preston)
The 24-year-old winger’s performances for Dundalk in 2016, particularly in the Europa League, meant he was linked with a number of British clubs. The Galway native ultimately chose Preston, and he will be available for Simon Grayson’s side from January onwards.
Andy Boyle (Dundalk to Preston)
Like Dundalk teammate Horgan, 25-year-old Boyle recently made the move to Championship side Preston after a series of commanding displays at the heart of the Lilywhites’ defence, receiving an Ireland call-up recently to boot.
Dylan Watts (UCD to Leicester City)
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder joined the Premier League champions last September after impressing with UCD. The Blackrock native had made 20 appearances in all competitions for the Students before signing a two-year deal with the Foxes.
Lee O’Connor (Villa Football Club to Man United)
Man United snapped up O’Connor back in April. The attacking full-back joined from Villa Football Club in Waterford, with the starlet previously named the FAI U15 Player of the Year.
4 Irish-based players who could follow them in 2017
Sean Maguire (Cork)
There were doubts surrounding Sean Maguire’s future after he bagged an impressive 18 goals for Cork in the 2016 League of Ireland season. Ultimately, the former West Ham youth-team player chose to commit to John Caulfield’s side for 2017 despite rumoured interest from English clubs, though a similar campaign next season could make the prolific striker impossible for the Rebels to hold onto.
Sean Gannon (Dundalk)
The 25-year-old full-back was heavily linked with Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich before eventually committing to Dundalk for another season, though a couple of English clubs will likely continue to monitor the talented Dubliner closely.
Kevin O’Connor (Cork)
The technically accomplished defender made 28 appearances in all competitions for Cork last season. One of the League of Ireland’s most impressive performers in 2016, at 21, he still has plenty of time to earn a big move abroad.
Aaron McEneff (Derry)
Aaron McEneff was among Derry’s standout players in 2016, having left Tottenham following an injury-ridden stint the summer before last. Yet on the evidence of recent displays, the 21-year-old midfielder — who is rumoured to be switching international allegiance from Northern Ireland to the Republic — certainly has the ability to make an impact across the water.
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
