Kevin Long's Cork City return confirmation imminent as centre-half quits Waterford

Kevin Long’s return to his former club Cork City is imminent after the former Ireland defender confirmed his departure from Waterford.

The 36-year-old won 17 Ireland caps between 2017 and 2020, coming back to Ireland as a free agent in March after being released by his last club, MLS outfit Toronto.

Long was signed from Cork City by Burnley as a 19-year-old, remaining with the Clarets for 13 years to earn cult status among the fanbase.

It’s understood the centre-back was departing the Blues regardless of how last Sunday’s FAI Cup final fared, primarily for personal reasons. 

At this stage, the plan is for him to finish out his career at Barry Robson’s newly-promoted team.

“I want to thank everybody at Waterford for welcoming me into your club this season,” he wrote on an online post.

“Unfortunately, we couldn’t cap the season off with a win in the final but we gave it everything to make it happen for the fans but it just wasn’t to be.

“Sunday’s game was my last game for the club but I’ve really enjoyed my time and want to wish everybody all the best going forward.” 

Cork City will aim to rid their yo-yo cycle when they begin the 2027 season in February.

Archie Meeksion became the first recruit of the off-season last week when the Scots signed up following a spell at Sligo Rovers.