Cork City boss John Caulfield says Ryan Delaney deal is close

Cork City look set to complete a permanent move for defender Ryan Delaney this week after manager John Caulfield said the deal was “close”, while also confirming he has identified a replacement for the departing Seanie Maguire.

Delaney — a serious doubt for runaway league leaders City’s return to Premier Division action this weekend, as they host Limerick at Turner’s Cross on Friday night — is on the verge of sealing his switch from Nigel Clough’s Championship side Burton Albion.

The positive news on Delaney will be most welcome on Leeside. While City have opened up a yawning gap at the top of the league, the draw for the Europa League on Monday will signal the club’s busiest spell of the season.