By Ciaran Callan SSE Airtricity League - Dundalk FC Reporter It’s a happy Monday for all those concerned at Dundalk FC with the return of Patrick McEleney to Oriel Park following his departure to Oldham Athletic just six months ago. The signing wh
By Ciaran Callan
SSE Airtricity League - Dundalk FC Reporter
It’s a happy Monday for all those concerned at Dundalk FC with the return of Patrick McEleney to Oriel Park following his departure to Oldham Athletic just six months ago.
The signing while in some quarters regarded as the best-worst kept secret, it will add another string to Stephen Kenny’s bow as he faces a hectic European and domestic schedule in the SSE Airtricity League. With the news uncertain of whether Krisztian Adorjan will remain at Dundalk following his loan agreement due to end this month, the signing gives Kenny much needed cover moving forward and a selection headache.
Patrick McEleney first joined Dundalk from Derry City at the end of 2015 as part of the clubs new jersey unveiling in a packed An Tain Theatre and during his first spell at Oriel Park he scored 16 goals in 78 appearances before joining Oldham Athletic in January 2018.
His goals were something to behold at times with stunning strikes against Limerick and St. Patricks Athletic a sure thing to be added to his highlight reel. However it was his impressive and sometimes game changing performances in the historic 2016 European campaign that really made people stand up and take notice.
A tricky and skilful midfielder, he added pace and strength to his game, as is the case with players who arrive at Dundalk under the careful eye of Stephen Kenny, there is always room for improvement.
The contract of three and a half years also shows the intent of McEleney and Dundalk to remain at the club during his peak years. People tend to forget such has McEleneys time in the league to date he is till only 25, the best years are ahead of them, and Dundalk fans are thankful they will be in Oriel Park.
What will make of the ‘Return of the Mac’ remains to be seen but one thing is for certain, if its anything like his initial period at the club, the fans both home and away are in for a treat.
