Waterford woe as Ronan Coughlan eyes cross-channel move

Despite the club's best efforts, Coughlan has identified a move to the UK as his preferred choice. 

HUGE BLOW: Waterford’s Ronan Coughlan celebrates. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Waterford FC have been dealt a huge blow with the news that goalscorer extraordinaire Ronan Coughlan will not be part of their squad for the 2024 Premier Division campaign. 

Despite Waterford's persuasion attempts, Coughlan has identified a move to the UK as his preferred choice. 

A club statement issued on Thursday night read: "Despite the club’s best efforts and contract offers, the striker has reiterated his desire to play in England and we wish Ronan all the best."

Coughlan - who had a three-year spell at Huddersfield Town from 2014 to 2017 -  has been linked with Waterford's sister club, League One outfit Fleetwood Town.

Having joined Waterford from St Patrick's Athletic prior to the 2023 campaign, the Limerick native notched 37 goals in all competitions, shattering both the First Division scoring record and the all-time Waterford record for the most goals scored in a single season in the process.

The 27-year-old, fittingly, was the man on the spot to secure promotion for the club back in November, when he scored the winner in the play-off final in a 2–1 win over Munster rivals Cork City at Tallaght Stadium.

Waterford boss Keith Long, while understandably disappointed to lose his key asset, thanked the striker for his contribution. 

“We’re disappointed to see Ronan leave but the club did everything we could to secure Ronan for next season," Long said. “He was outstanding last season, but he’s made it clear he wants to play in England again.

“Of course we’re sorry to see Ronan go, he was excellent last season for the club but we wish him well.”