Cantwell & Shanahan sign for United

Galway United are delighted to confirm that defender Kilian Cantwell has joined the Tribesmen from Wexford Youths.

Cantwell, 19, made a huge impression during an excellent campaign for Wexford, who finished fourth in the SSE Airtricity League First Division.

Manager Tommy Dunne believes that Cantwell can develop further as a footballer in the west.

“Kilian Cantwell is the type of young, hungry player we want to bring to the club. We feel that we can develop players and help them progress in their careers,” Dunne said.

“During the last season so many young guys made strides for us and Kilian has the potential to do the same.

“I think anybody who watched our games saw what we were trying to do and Kilian should fit in.

“We are assembling a good squad ahead of pre-season and I will be busy in the coming weeks getting players signed so they are ready for when we start again properly in January.”

Cantwell, a commanding centre half, was an ever-present for Wexford Youths last season, starting 27 League games, scoring 4 goals, including a winner against Galway at Ferrycarrig Park in August.

The Kilkenny native insists that signing for Galway United was an easy decision to make.

“I’m delighted to be going on to a higher League,” Cantwell said.

“2014 was my first season in the SSE Airtricity League. I was hoping I could make the next step and I can’t think of a better club to do it with.

“I hope I can make my mark. Last year, we played Galway five times and they were the best footballing side we played. I was happy to get the phone call from Tommy Dunne and I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to join.

“I could see last season that there was a real buzz in Galway’s team, we had that at Wexford too. It shows that you want to go and challenge.”

Cantwell’s impressive performances at the heart of Wexford Youth’s defence have earned him many admirers including Galway United manager Tommy Dunne.

“I wanted to show my potential and ambition to play, I am thankful that Shane Keegan gave me the opportunity to play with Wexford Youths.

“I’m currently in college in WIT doing business. I was thinking of finishing my degree and playing football down here closer to home.

“When the call came in from Tommy Dunne and I got the chance to play Premier Division football with Galway United I felt it was too good of an opportunity to turn down.”

SHANAHAN RE-SIGNS

Gary Shanahan is the latest player to re-sign for the club for the 2015 SSE Airtricity League Premier Division season.

The 21 year old winger from Newcastle West in Limerick scored 6 goals in 30 appearances for Galway.

Galway United manager Tommy Dunne was delighted with Shanahan’s attitude throughout the 2014 campaign.

“Gary had a great season for us. He had to wait for a while to get into the team, but when he got in he stayed in.

“His attitude was top class and he showed what we were about.”