Sligo Rovers have boosted their forward line after the announcement that they’ve brought in 32 year-old striker Daryl Fordyce for the 2019 season. Fordyce, from Northern Ireland, began his career with Portsmouth, but made his name playing for Glentoran and Linfield in the Northern Irish Premiership.
The striker arrives at the Showgrounds from Canadian side FC Edmonton, where he spent the last six years, after the club suffered difficulties from the change in league format.
The experienced player can operate in a midfield and attacking role, including striker, and joins on a one-year contract to offer a number of positives for manager Liam Buckley in his squad.
He made over 250 appearance for Linfield and Glentoran prior to the move to Canada.
Buckley said, “Daryl brings a wealth of experience and a real composure and quality on the ball.
“He has impressed in the week he has been with us. It’s a great move from our end because it’s an area we’ve had to strengthen in and I think in Daryl we have a really good player to do that. He can offer a number of options.”
“I know there was interest from a number of clubs up north but he has really taken to things here and I’m delighted to sign him here today.”
Fordyce said: “It is great to clinch the deal today. Everyone has been so accommodating and welcoming and it’s a really professional and friendly environment.”
Having taken some time away from football for family matters, Fordyce says he’s kept himself fit, “I had been keeping fit before coming here and I’ve loved the training so far. I played 90 minutes last Saturday in Athlone which was great for me and showed I have that fitness. I hope to do something similar against Longford.”
“Family came first for me last year, that was my priority and the way it transpired meant I couldn’t join a club. It was a hard year for all of us but it’s over and I’m focusing on the future. I think that this can be a brilliant move.”
“I came close to joining a League of Ireland club in St Patrick’s Athletic before – prior to Liam Buckley was there. It’s nice to be involved in it now and with the new season so close I can’t wait to get playing.”
Picture Credit: Sligo Rovers FC