Kavanagh becomes a Candystripe

Derry City have completed the signing of former Shamrock Rovers and Shelbourne winger Paddy Kavanagh on a one year deal.

The signing is Derry’s first in this transfer window although they have already re-signed Simon Madden as well as keeping 12 of the FAI Cup winning squad at the Brandywell as they are still under contract to the club.

Kavanagh, who will turn 27 at the end of December, exited Shelbourne after just one season. Some excellent performances from the wide man in that time, including a fantastic display against the Candystripes in the FAI Cup semi-final, meant that it came as no surprise to see him snapped up quickly once his contract with the Reds ran out.

Talking to the Londonderry Sentinel, Kavanagh outlined the reason for his move northwards.

"I want to win things. Derry showed last year they were able to win the cup; why not win the league next year? That’s where my ambition lies. I’m not coming up here for the good of my health; I have won a league and I have won a Setanta Cup with Rovers and I want to win the league again.”

In his career to date he has played for UCD, Birmingham City and Bray Wanderers, as well as Rovers and Shels. He won the league title with the Hoops in 2010 and also made two appearances against Italian giants Juventus in the Europa League during the same season.

Kavanagh played 37 games for Shels last year, scoring six goals.