Prolific Barry Coffey the latest ex-Cork City player to join Cobh cause

Barry Coffey, then of Cork City. Pic: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile

Cobh Ramblers have continued their recruitment spree of former Cork City players by snaring midfielder Barry Coffey.

New Rams boss Mick McDermott had already snapped up captain Cian Coleman, Cian Bargary, Cian Murphy, John O’Donovan and Jack Doherty following their release from last year’s First Division champions.

Former City players Jonas Häkkinen and Shane Griffin, as well as coach Richie Holland, are also onboard for the new season kicking off at Treaty United on Friday, February 14.

Coffey is perhaps the most eye-catching capture, as the free agent had options in the Premier Division.

“It’s a big season ahead for the club and I want to be part of that - to help the team do well with goals and assists,” said the Nenagh native, whose professional career began in Scotland with Celtic.

“We have a great, strong squad and an experienced manager and backroom team to drive us forward. I’m really looking forward to the season starting and hopefully making it one to remember.” His new manager was aware of Coffey’s calibre from his short spell in the Northern Ireland league with Cliftonville before the midfielder settled with the Rebels.

“Barry is a talented player that I know from my time in the Irish League,” said former Glentoran manager McDermott, recruited himself in succession to Gary Hunt.

“When the option to bring him to Cobh became a possibility, we acted immediately to bring him in.

“There was a lot of interest from other clubs, so we are happy that Barry chose Cobh for this next step in his career.” 

Cobh finished eighth of 10 teams last season but will have loftier ambitions given the pedigree of player enticed to St Colman’s Park.

They were brought out of the fan owner model by FC32 in the off-season, added to their multi-club stable that includes a stake in SKN St. Pölten and interest in Serie A’s US Salernitana 1919 and Swiss second tier club AC Bellinzona.

The investors – led by former Nike executive Paul Francis – were also in talks about assuming ownership of A-League outfit Newcastle Jets.