Following the departure early in the day of Garry Comerford, to Munster rivals Cork City, Waterford replaced him with former Irish Youth International Zack Elbouzedi.
The 20-year-old Elbouzedi has previously represented the Republic of Ireland at U15, U16, U17 and U19 international level.
Dublin-born Elbouzedi joined West Bromwich Albion from Malahide in 2015 and spend two years at the club, before joining Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2017. He is known for his pace, technical ability and quick attacking play, and Blues boss Alan Reynolds said he’s a player who will excite the fans at the Regional Sports Center, “We’re delighted to welcome Zack to the club – he’s a great signing for us and he’s delighted to be here.”
“He’s a player who we think will really excite the fans, he’s quick and likes to attack and that’ll suit us. Zack has been over in England with West Brom and in Scotland too. Even at 20 years of age, he brings experience to the club.”
“He’s a quick, powerful midfielder who likes to get forward and he’ll be a great asset to us this season.”
For Elbouzedi, it’s all about looking forward, “I’m delighted to get everything done and it’s great to have my future sorted. I’m excited by what Waterford has to offer and I’m looking forward to next season.”
“Everything is really professional here, the pitch, the training pitches, the stadium, it’s as good as most English clubs. I came up, had a look at the facilities and I was really impressed. I spoke to Alan (Reynolds) and I’m really looking forward to seeing what next season holds.”
The youngster also has European Football on his mind, after the club secured a spot following their first season back in the top flight, “Obviously European football is a big plus and it’ll be nice to experience that. It’s amazing where the club has come from in the last few years and it’s important that as a club we push on.”
“I just want minutes on the pitch now. I was at West Brom but it’s so hard to break into a Premier League team, then went to Inverness and I was flying at the start but got injured. So, I’m hoping to get into the team and get a run of games.”
“I’m looking forward to getting into pre-season training, meeting everybody else around the club and getting ready for the start of the season.”
Picture Credit: Noel Browne (Waterford FC)