O'Brien-Whitmarsh signs first professional deal as Hurley re-signs for Cork City

Cork City have confirmed that the young duo of Beineon O’Brien-Whitmarsh and Ronan Hurley have both committed their 2020 future to the Leesiders.

O’Brien-Whitmarsh is a graduate of the Leesiders under-19 set up, as is Hurley – with both making their mark towards the tail-end of City’s bitterly disappointing 2019 campaign.

Former Cobh Ramblers forward O’Brien-Whitmarsh told the Rebel Army’s media team; “I’m delighted. I just want to play football; it is what I have always wanted to do.

“I loved being part of the first team squad towards the end of last season; it just showed me what it was all about.

“I had done a lot of work with Colin Healy with the 19s during the year, so I felt I was ready for the step-up.

“A lot of guys have come through from the Under 19s last season, which is great to see. For example, Dale Holland and Rory Doyle are guys who I have been playing alongside since I was 11/12/13, so it is great that we have all made the step-up together. 

“Alec Byrne and Ronan Hurley are guys who I played with at Under 19 level as well, so it is brilliant to see so many young players getting the chance.

“I think it also gives the players in academy encouragement when they see us getting chances. I want to get as fit and as strong as I can and see how I get on.”

Full-back Hurley added; “I’m buzzing to sign back. Last year was my first year as a professional, so I will be looking to push on in the coming season.

“I got some game time under my belt last season, and I want more of that next season.”

Speaking on the acquisition of the young duo ahead of the 2020 campaign, City boss Neale Fenn concluded; “I am very happy to get Beineón signed up for the season. He was very good when he came in towards the end of last season.

“He works hard and, for someone who is not the biggest, his link-up play is very good. He was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet a couple of times as well, so we were pleased with how he did.

“Ronan was a stand-out performer last season and cemented his place in the team. He is hard-working, a good lad and wants to improve, so he is just the kind of player we want at the club.”