Drogs 'keeper out until May

Drogheda United have been dealt a blow with the news that goalkeeper Dan Connor has been ruled out for up to ten weeks of the new season after undergoing surgery on a hip injury.

Connor, who was nominated for the SWAI Goalkeeper of the Year award last season, is likely to be out until the start of May as he continues his rehabilitation to full fitness.

Connor is understandably disappointed, but admits the surgery was necessary: ‘It’s disappointing to miss the start of the season, of course, but it had got to the stage where I couldn’t play on.

‘I was never 100% fit last season. So while I am disappointed, it’ll be great to get back to training in top shape. I’ve been told April/May so that’s what I’m working towards.’

Club physio Albert Byrne revealed the lengths Connor had to go to just to make it through a game.

He: ‘He had to take injections in his hip just to last the 90 minutes, it’s actually a miracle he lasted the whole season. Dan has started his rehab and now it’s just a matter of wait and see, as to when he’ll be back to full training.’