Stephen Folan targets title after Cork City move

Stephen Folan has set his sights on the Airtricity League Premier Division title after joining Cork City yesterday.

The defender joins City after a spell with Sligo Rovers, having previously played for Limerick and Newcastle United.

And the 23-year-old believes City, who currently trail leaders Dundalk by six points, have the capability to catch the champions.

“We still have to play Dundalk twice, so it is still all to play for and I think if any team is going to give Dundalk a run for their money, it is going to be us,” he said.

Folan said joining City was an easy decision.

“I’m absolutely over the moon. Once I got the phone call, this is where I knew I wanted to be. The club is challenging for honours again this season, and I am looking forward to being a part of it.

“I’ve been on the losing side against Cork City a number of times; they’re a big team but they can play football as well. There are a lot of experienced players at the club and I can’t wait to get started.”

City boss John Caulfield is thrilled with his latest addition and hopes to add an offensive player to the squad in the next week.

Caulfield said: “It’s great to bring Stephen into the squad. He can play centre-back and also at left-back, and it is an area where we have had a number of injuries this season, so I felt we were a bit short.

“We have brought in Steven Beattie and now Stephen Folan, and we are still looking to see if we can get another attacking player in, so that will be ongoing for the next week”.

Meanwhile, 38-times capped Republic of Ireland international Stephen Kelly is leaving Reading after failing to agree terms with the Championship outfit on a new contract.