Darragh Burns snubs Shamrock Rovers to join English League Two outfit Grimsby

Dubliner Darragh Burns has turned down a permanent move to Shamrock Rovers.

GRIMSBY BOUND: Darragh Burns has signed with Grimsby depite Shamrock Rovers offer of a permanent move. Pic: ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Shamrock Rovers have suffered a blow with winger Darragh Burns turning down the offer of a permanent move to instead sign for Grimsby Town.

Grimsby’s League Two rivals MK Dons were willing to part with the 22-year-old and there was confidence Burns would upgrade his temporary switch to Tallaght into a full-time deal.

However, despite the clubs agreeing a fee, Burns spurned a homecoming.

He’d been part of their side that swept through the Uefa Conference League phase but won’t be around for the playoff against Norwegian outfit Molde on February 13 and 20.

From the Hoops side that faced Chelsea in their last European game in December, free agent Neil Farrugia has joined Barnsley, earning a start on Saturday, while striker Johnny Kenny returned to parent club Celtic and made his debut three weeks ago.

"We've been tracking him for some time and have been impressed," said Grimsby manager David Artell after concluding terms with MK Dons and Burns.

"He's technically proficient, particularly in the final third with excellent crossing, good delivery from both feet and he has an eye for goal, too."

Dubliner Burns began his professional career with St Patrick’s Athletic before moving to MK Dons in 2022. He initially represented Northern Ireland at underage level before switching to the Republic and being called into the U21s.