Ryan O'Reilly signs for Cliftonville after spell with Ballinamallard United

Cliftonville have made their first signing of the summer as defender Ryan O'Reilly joins the Reds from Championship side Ballinamallard United.

The Cavan native joined the Ducks in 2018 and made over 70 appearances for Harry McConkey's side. 

O'Reilly spent four years at Stoke City, which included captaining the club's under-18 team, before moving to Wrexham on loan.

He is also a former Republic of Ireland youth International and becomes the fourth player to move to Solitude from Ferney Park in recent years alongside Richard Brush, Chris Curran and Ryan Curran.

O'Reilly made 28 appearances in 2019/20 for the Mallards scoring two goals as they finished second in the Championship behind Portadown on a points per game basis. 

Commenting on his departure to Solitude on the Mallards website O'Reilly said "I want to thank all at Ballinamallard United for making my time at the Club so enjoyable". 

"I was gutted at the way our season ended and that we weren't given the opportunity to finish the job but I've no doubt you will return to the Premiership in the very near future. I wish you every success and hope to see you all again soon".

Ballinamallard also confirmed that Sean McEvoy will be moving on to sign for League of Ireland side Bray Wanderers. 

McConkey said "Sean has decided to move to Bray as it will be easier for him to also continue with his studies and I know this is not a decision that he and family has taken lightly. We look forward to watching his career blossom at both a local and International level and the McEvoy's will always be welcome back at Ferney Park".