Drogheda United have signed defender Jack Keaney from UCD in the first new addition since the takeover at the club.
Keaney began at Sligo Rovers, where he emerged from the youth setup into the first team during the 2017 season.
He made 48 appearances over the subsequent two seasons before his move to UCD midway through 2019.
Keaney has dedicated the last four and a half seasons to UCD, striking a balance between football and pursuing his degree.
"I’m delighted to get the deal done now. It’s been a busy month since the season finished but just chatting to Kevin (Doherty), I’m excited to get going now," Keaney stated.
Next chapter, let's go 🟣🔵 @DroghedaUnited https://t.co/J4csykRkec
— Jackkeaney (@jackkeaney1) December 4, 2023
"It’s been busy. I was on holiday for the last two weeks. Chatting to Kevin, knowing him first and foremost, we have a good relationship off the pitch. Everything he was saying, how well the club did last year and wanting to push on, made me excited to come here.
"Coming up here with UCD, I know the fanbase, it’s a hard place to come so we’re looking to make that a fortress next year. Every time you come up here, it’s a battle and you are not going to get anything easy with the fans behind you.
The 24-year-old captained UCD over the last four years and now joins United.
Manager Kevin Doherty said his new addition will make a significant contribution: "Jack is at that good age. He’s played a lot of games, has a lot of experience. He was UCD’s best player last year and got their player of the year award.
"I’ve been a big admirer of Jack for several years. With UCD, the lads wait until they finish their education, and rightly so. I’ve wanted to have Jack at the club. He’s versatile, but for me he’s a proper centre-half, and I’m delighted to have him here."
