Cork City secure services of English goalkeeper Brad Wade

Cork City boss Tim Clancy has secured the services of English goalkeeper Brad Wade for the 2024 season.

23-year-old Wade joins the club - subject to a successful medical and international clearance - from Yorkshire outfit Guiseley AFC, who ply their trade in the Premier Division of the Northern Premier League, the seventh tier of English football. 

Newly installed City boss Clancy has been keeping tabs on Wade for some time, noting his desire to sign him while still in charge of St Patrick's Athletic. 

Wade follows Cobh Ramblers duo Jack Doherty and Charlie Lyons, as well as Derry academy product Evan McLaughlin in the door at Bishopstown this off-season. 

City have also tied down the promising John O'Donovan, injury returnee Darragh Crowley and wingers Malik Dijksteel - who arrived on Leeside in August - and Cian Bargary from the 2023 version of the Rebel Army squad.

“I am very pleased to be joining Cork City in January and really looking forward to getting over to Cork," said Wade. "I have had some really good conversations with the manager and I think this will be a really good opportunity for me.

“The manager has explained what his ambitions are for the club for the coming season and I am excited by the opportunity. We want to have a good season and get the club back to where it should be, so we will be looking to hit the ground running in the New Year. 

"I will be coming over in advance of pre-season starting to get myself settled and meet up with everyone, and I just cannot wait to get going.” 

City boss Tim Clancy admitted he has been keeping an eye on the young stopper for some time.  

“Brad was on my radar when I was at St. Pat’s and we wanted to bring him in there, but something fell through on the deal. He was