Derry's Evan McLaughlin completes move to Cork City

Cork City boss Tim Clancy has made Derry City playmaker Evan McLaughlin his third new signing of the League of Ireland off-season.

Derry academy product McLaughlin follows Cobh Ramblers duo Jack Doherty and Charlie Lyons in the door at Bishopstown.

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

21-year-old McLaughlin joins City having made over 30 senior appearances for the Foylesiders, whilst he also made over 20 appearances during a loan spell with Coleraine in the latter half of 2022.

Upon signing his City contract, McLaughlin said: “I’ve been speaking to Tim (Clancy), and obviously the main goal for us is to get promoted.” 

Having lined out at Turner’s Cross in a Derry City jersey previously, he spoke on the prospect of playing in front of the City faithful.

“I’m used to being shouted at in Turner’s Cross, so hopefully this time the City supporters are cheering me on, rather than the other way around. 

“I’m an attacking player, I like to get on the ball and make things happen. I like to get the fans off of their seats. The aim is to chip in with goals and assists to help the team as much as possible.” 

City boss Clancy added: “Evan is an exciting young player. He is an attacking player who can play in multiple positions. 

"He broke through at Derry but he probably got a bit less game time than he would have liked, so he is really looking forward to coming down here. 

"I think it is going to be a massive season for Evan and I think the fans will really enjoy how he plays.”

Clancy's City side kick off their 2024 First Division campaign at home against neighbours Kerry