Johnny Kenny extends contract with Shamrock Rovers

Shamrock Rovers have agreed terms with Celtic for a loan extension for striker Johnny Kenny. 

The Sligo native came through the underage system at Sligo Rovers. He was a member of Liam Buckley's squad in 2021 making his debut against Dundalk at the Showgrounds in March. 

He went on to score 12 goals for the Bit O'Red including one in their Europa Conference game against FH Hafnarfjordur of Iceland. Kenny made his Ireland U19 debut later in 2021.

Kenny left Sligo for Celtic on a five year deal in January 2022 and made 12 appearances on loan at the Championship club Queen's Park.

Kenny joined Shamrock Rovers on loan from Celtic for the 2023 season where he made 30 appearances in the league and four in European competitions.

Head Coach Stephen Bradley was speaking with shamrockrovers.ie about the loan extension for Kenny.

“Yeah, I am absolutely delighted. Johnny showed last season, as a young player which people tend to forget, that he’s still learning the game and there’s still much room for improvement and growth. He’s one who we feel really fits what we do. 

"He’s a brilliant kid with a brilliant attitude and we feel he’s got all the potential to be a high-level centre forward. So, we’re absolutely delighted to have him back.”

Kenny joined Shamrock Rovers from Celtic after a tough eighteen months. 

“People just see the player on the pitch. What you must also understand is that he had a difficult eighteen months before he came to us, and it takes time for a player to adjust. To a new environment, new teammates, so it takes time and doesn’t just happen overnight. 

"The positive thing is he’s young with a top-class attitude. He’s looking to improve, to work hard and wants to get better. I think he’s got real ability and I