Janesboro and Regional among the top recruiters in January

The Limerick District League transfer window has been open since the 1st December and unlike previous seasons, clubs in the Premier Division appear to be quieter in terms of player recruitment.

After speaking to many managers over the last week or so, it is clear that the majority of clubs are in the process of trying to add to their squad but as we have queried on many occasions, the depth of quality does not appear to be there at present. With several clubs vying for the signatures of a few players, there are many that will be left disappointed.

With exactly two weeks left before the window shuts once more for the rest of the campaign, the race against time is on.

Janesboro were a club who were in desperate need of signings following the departure of so many in the summer. Shane O’Hanlon has cut a frustrated figure this season as he has been working around the clock to add to a threadbare squad who were dismantled in Nenagh a couple of weeks ago.

Amazingly, despite all the negative press, the club are just four points behind fourth place Geraldines. It is evident that O’Hanlon’s recruitment and contacts have reaped rewards for the ‘Boro manager once more as the club have re-signed Kevin Barry and Thomas Lyons from Geraldines and Ballynanty respectively. Jordan Boland has also left the northside club to join the Pearse Stadium outfit.

In the coming days, both former goalkeeper John Mulready and Pat Whelan are expected to join the club from Bridge United and Prospect Priory. However, possibly the most impressive piece of business is the return of left-back Ryan Doherty who was on a sabbatical due to college commitments. Doherty was heavily involved in last year’s double winning side.

Regional United have also managed to secure three impressive signings during the transfer window. Former Limerick FC duo Tomas O’Connor and Alan Murphy have signed for the Dooradoyle outfit. Pat McDonagh has also returned to the club following a very brief spell with Janesboro. Shane O’Donoghue and co will be hoping to continue their push for a top four finish following last week’s defeat to Usher Celtic in the FAI Junior Cup.

With the clock running down, we are awaiting news from at least two more clubs in relation to transfers and will publicise them as soon as they are confirmed.