Cork City's Conor McCarthy signs for St Mirren

CORK CITY captain Conor McCarthy is signing for Scottish Premiership side St Mirren.

The 21-year-old defender, one of City’s best performers in the frustrating 2019 season, has been out of contract since the end of the campaign, but City remained hopeful of securing him to a new contract despite interest from the United Kingdom.

Unfortunately for the Rebel Army, an improved offer was turned down and he has opted to join the Paisley side, who are currently tenth in the Scottish top flight. 

Former City defender Seán McLoughlin spent the first half of the season on loan at Love Street from Hull City, whom he joined last summer.

While McCarthy was a free agent, City were due a six-figure sum in compensation for training and development. 

It is believed that, in lieu of this compensation, an agreement has been reached where an initial fee will be paid and further payments will follow based on St Mirren’s performance and future transfers. 

McCarthy’s first club Blarney United will also benefit from the move.

McCarthy was appointed as captain midway through last season during John Cotter’s spell in charge of City. 

With his departure confirmed, midfielder Gearóid Morrissey would seem to be the most logical choice to take over as skipper, based on longevity and experience.

City head coach Neale Fenn has brought in goalkeeper Liam Bossin, Rob Slevin, Charlie Fleming, Cian Coleman, Dylan McGlade, Conor Davis and Cory Galvin and is hoping to add two or three more signings from the UK in the next week or so.