Ryan signs for Vikings

Former Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper Barry Ryan has signed for eircom League bottom club Dublin City, three weeks after completing a nine-month doping ban.

Ryan tested positive last September for a recreational drug and was handed a 15-month ban, reduced to nine on appeal.

The 25-year-old from Ennis, Co Clare, goes straight into manager John Gill’s squad for tomorrow night's game at Waterford United.

Ryan said: "I'm thrilled to have linked up with the club. John was very honest when he spoke to me and I believe I have a lot to offer the team.

"We've nearly half the season still remaining and there's a lot of football and points still to be played and decided. I'm optimistic about our prospects and I just want to get on with playing the game and helping to make this club a success."

Gill believes Ryan, a former league goalkeeper of the year award winner, deserves a fresh start.

"Barry made a mistake and has paid for it,” the Vikings manager said.

"We've drawn a line in the sand and we're moving on. Everyone deserves a second chance and I'm happy to offer Barry one.

“He's a top class 'keeper and it'll be good competition for Brendan (Kennedy) and Robbie (Horgan). He has a great track record as a player and we need as much quality as we can get to help us."

The Vikings were busy in the transfer market yesterday, also signing 19-year-old centre forward Peter Hynes from Aston Villa.

The Dubliner had loan spells at Nationwide League clubs Doncaster Rovers and Cheltenham Town last season.