Barrett delighted as Clifford agrees deal to play for Limerick

CONOR CLIFFORD has signed for Limerick in a bid to relaunch his football career.

The 26-year-old is free to resume playing after the expiration of his six-month ban for gambling offences during the tail end of his time in England.

And the Dubliner (below) held talks with a number of clubs before opting to pen a deal with the Shannonsiders.

He had spoken with local club St Patrick’s Athletic but they have an abundance of options in the midfield department.

It’s expected that the ex-Chelsea youth will play regularly at Limerick as they attempt to preserve their top-flight status.

Manager Tommy Barrett said he was delighted to tie down a player of Clifford’s quality, and his immediate availability is a plus as they are light on bodies.

“We are delighted to have Conor on board,” said Barrett. “He is a good signing.

“We have a light squad and when a player of Conor’s ability becomes available it is great to be able to have him. Hopefully he can kick-start his career again from here.

“He is a good midfielder. He is technically very good and energetic, and we believe he can chip in with some goals as well. We’re looking forward to working with him. He will come into contention straight away.”

Meanwhile, St Patrick’s Athletics are understood to be on the verge of making an announcement about their long-term stadium plans.

It’s believed they are strongly considering a short move up to road to a new ground adjacent to St Michael’s Estate in Inchicore.

St Pat’s returned to their traditional home of Richmond Park in 1993 after a brief stint at Harold’s Cross. A decade ago a plan to move to the St Michael’s site was floated and it is believed to be back on the cards now. Meanwhile, Bray Wanderers have appointed Graham Kelly as caretaker boss while they seek a replacement for Dave Mackey.

Kelly has worked as Seagulls U-19 manager in addition to helping out with first team coaching and video analysis. He will be helped out by experienced defender Conor Kenna who will also be assisting in the area of coaching.

The Seagulls say Kelly will be in the post for the ‘foreseeable future’ and his first game will be Friday’s visit of league leaders Dundalk to the Carlisle Grounds.