Cian Coleman praises the influence of Neil McDonald upon completing move to Limerick FC

New Limerick FC recruit Cian Coleman has praised the role that Neil McDonald played in convincing him to sign for the Shannonsiders for the 2018 season. Coleman signed for the club on Monday night and became the first new signing and the 9th member of the squad for the new season.

The energetic midfielder spent last season with first division club Cobh Ramblers who finished as runners up to the impressive Waterford United. Coleman made 27 appearances in all competitions for Stephen Henderson’s side and has received praise for his attitude and commitment both on and off the field. Neil McDonald’s new signing has stated his desire to work hard and achieve at Limerick FC. Speaking to the club’s official website, Coleman said:

“I’m delighted to have signed for Limerick. It was great to see the club come up and stay in the Premier Division with all the hard work that went in on and off the pitch. I’m looking forward to the challenge of the Premier Division with Limerick and working hard for Neil, the coaching staff and everyone involved at Limerick FC

Coleman spent the majority of his underage career at Cork City where he signed for the under 19s team in 2013 at the age of 16. Following impressive displays, Coleman made two appearances for the senior side in 2016 before signing for Cobh Ramblers as he would find first team chances limited at Turner’s Cross. The former Cork City man has stated that Neil McDonald played a crucial role in encouraging him to sign for the Super Blues.

“The day after the season ended I was contacted about Limerick’s interest in me, which is always nice to hear. There were clubs from abroad interested too, but when Neil called me, personally I was impressed by what he said, especially from such a respected coach and from a club like Limerick. It was an easy decision for me after that.”

Coleman feels that Limerick supporters can expect performances full of passion, commitment and energy when he takes to the field for the new season.

“I know I’ll give 150 percent in every training session and sacrifice everything for the club when I put on the jersey. I’m known I suppose for never giving up and fighting for every ball. I believe in a never-say-die attitude and passion for winning, which is what I want to do at Limerick.”

Coleman is no stranger to the Markets Field as he captained the Leesiders to victory over Limerick in the Under-19 league final in 2015. The youngster is clearly excited about the prospect of making the Markets Field his home for next season.

“I can’t wait, though, to step out there in a Limerick jersey. It’s a great place to play and I look forward to experiencing the atmosphere as a Limerick player.”

Current Limerick FC player Chiedozie Ogbene starred alongside Coleman on that Cork team. Both players were vital as they faced HJK Helsinki and Italian giants AS Roma in the UEFA Youth League. Coleman was impressed by Ogbene’s performances last season and feels that he can emulate the performances of the tricky winger.

“I played with Chiedozie for two seasons at Cork City and when he came in we could all see he had it. I was personally delighted for him seeing him do so well here. He proved how valuable he was to the club and repaid the faith shown in him. My aim is to do the same and express myself on the pitch like Chiedozie did in his first season in the Premier Division.”

The midfielder has cited his season with Cobh Ramblers as critically important to his development and thanked former coaches Stephen Henderson and Stuart Ashton for their roles.

“It was very beneficial playing a full season, playing every week and learning from two great coaches in Stephen Henderson and of course Stuart Ashton, who I obviously came through under at Cork City.”

Coleman is expected to be the first of many new faces in the first team squad ahead of the new season. The club will be announcing new signings over the coming weeks.