Preston player has luck of the Irish

Irish defender Kevin O’Connor has struck it rich after winning one million euros ($1.2 million) in his country’s lottery.

The 22-year-old, who plays for English second-tier side Preston North End, landed the winning ticket in a New Year’s Eve draw.

O’Connor was the given the ticket by his godfather and uncle, Peadar Murphy, according to The Irish Times. Murphy posted the ticket to his nephew with the message: “I wish you the best of luck.”

The 22-year-old leftback, who joined Preston form Irish club Cork City in July, celebrated with family and friends after collecting his prize in Dublin on Tuesday.