News -
18 October 2019
Paddy O'Neil Departs
- By
Steven Mew
The Club can confirm that popular goalkeeper Patrick O'Neil has moved onto pastures new after spending over 5 seasons at Glebe Park.
He becomes the second player to leave City this week, with young midfielder Fionn McLeod Kay joining Glenrothes FC to seek more first team opportunities.
'Paddy' was initially signed by Ray McKinnon in the summer of 2014 and although he has spent much of his time at the club as backup goalkeeper, he has contributed greatly in his limited appearances. Most notably he kept a couple of crucial clean sheets in the run-in towards the end of City's promotion winning season of 2016/17.
The amiable stopper has struggled for game time this season with two other goalkeepers in Lewis McMinn and Ross Sinclair also competing for the number one jersey and it was mutually agreed between all parties that Paddy would greatly benefit from a new challenge elsewhere.
Manager Mark Wilson said, "Although I’ve only known Paddy for a few weeks it’s clear he’s a total professional and a great influence around the squad. He’s been unfortunate not to get more game time, but we had an open discussion and agreed that by moving on, Paddy would give himself the greatest opportunity to play games – and that’s rightly what he wants at this stage in his career."
Having known Paddy for a longer period of time, Assistant Manager Stevie Campbell added, "I have to agree with the Manager, Paddy has been a consummate pro. Any time he’s been called upon, he’s never let anyone down – his team-mates, his manager, or the fans. It’s to his personal credit that, despite being our No 2 keeper for the majority if his time here, he really is a fans favourite.
"From my viewpoint he’s always trained brilliantly. Also, we shouldn’t forget the travelling he’s done during his time with us – so it’s only fair that he gets a chance for regular football with a club nearer his home. Even in recent times, we can’t ignore his match-winning save at Albion Rovers a few weeks ago – having only just come on in the second half."
Everyone at Brechin City FC would like to thank Paddy for his efforts and professionalism over the years and wish him all the very best for the future.