There was some surprise news this week from Galway United, with manager John Caulfield confirming both the departure of ‘keeper Evan Watts due to a loan recall from Swansea City, and the arrival on a short-term deal of Galway Gaelic footballer Connor Gleeson.
The departure of Watts is undoubtedly a blow but one that has been softened by the return of the former United stopper who has answered the call.
Speaking to the Galway Advertiser on Wednesday, Caulfield paid tribute to Pádraig Joyce and Connor Gleeson. “I spoke to Conor and Pádraig yesterday morning. Obviously, Connor has played for Galway United before. While it was a difficult time for them at the weekend, Pádraig was absolutely fantastic. Connor couldn’t have been more excited to help us out for a short-term period.”
He struck a more disappointed tone in relation to the departure of Evan Watts who had been signed on a season-long loan. His clubmate Arthur Parker also departs, but that was in line with the terms of his deal.
“Evan signed for the season. Swansea had recalls. They had a change of management in their club. They informed us about a week ago. Timing was the issue more than anything, with the transfer window only opening today. Evan has done extremely well for us. He has been absolutely fantastic.
“We have been actively working to bring in another ‘keeper over the last 10 days. We have spoken to several guys. There are a few things close but nothing has happened yet.”
Caulfield confirmed that Hugo Pires da Cunha, who has been with United since January, will come into the starting XI against St Pats’ this Friday.
“He is really looking forward to his chance. He is a 6’ 6” Portuguese ‘keeper who is really dynamic”.
It appears to be envisaged that Gleeson will provide cover for da Cunha this weekend. He will be available while United seek to sign a goalkeeper on a more permanent basis.
There was further transfer news as Caulfield confirmed the loan signing of Leigh Kavanagh from Bohemians.
“He is a centre-back who has little game time this season but would have been a regular starter for the last couple of years since he came back from Brighton. He has been loaned to us until the end of the season and that is a big signing for us. We have been chasing him for the last seven or eight weeks, trying to get that one over the line. He comes into contention for Friday night’s game.”
Amidst all the juggling, the focus must remain squarely on Friday nights. United are in a tight position, although they are slightly ahead in their mini-league with Drogheda, Sligo and Waterford. Caulfield is very mindful of signing players who can make an immediate impact.
“It’s always a difficult time. We try to focus on players within our league, who understand our league. It is easier for outside players to settle in the off-season. You have a pre-season.”
One of the biggest tests in the league awaits them in Inchicore. Pat’s will be eager to claw back some ground after their reversal away to Bohs. They have games in hand that would bring them back into contention at the top. United will be similarly keen to keep their rivals at the bottom at arm’s length.
Supporters’ bus
A supporters’ bus to Friday’s Premier Division match at Richmond Park will depart from McGinns in Woodquay at 4pm, picking up along the route to Dublin. Seats can be booked by contacting Kian Kenny at 087 9404349 or Ronan Coleman at 087 6972823.
