Harrogate Town have confirmed the signing of Newcastle United Reserve Team Captain Cathal Heffernan on a permanent deal.
The Republic of Ireland youth international joins on an 18-month contract and is available for Town's trip to Shrewsbury, subject to FA and EFL approval.
Born in Cork, Heffernan began his career with Ringmahon Rangers, before moving to Cork City in 2019.
Heffernan revealed during his first interview:
“I'm buzzing, It's a massive move for me and my family and will be my first taste of men's football, so I'm just really excited to get going.
“All the experiences in my career so far have been leading to this moment now, so if I can take all of that and put it together, then I think it'll give me a good shot.
“I'm grateful to the club for taking me here, this is a massive opportunity for me and I’m determined to repay the faith.
“I want to help the team get as many wins as possible and put in as many good performances as I can.”
Before turning professional at Cork, Heffernan training with Juventus, Roma, Atalanta and AC Milan, with the Rossoneri securing the talented defender’s signature, in 2022.
A year later Heffernan would make to move to England and Newcastle United, where he has made over 50 PL2 appearances.
Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry added:
“He's energetic, puts his body on the line, he'll put his head in where it hurts and he's mobile, we like all aspects of his game.
“He's a real competitor. He was obviously captain for the under -21s at Newcastle so has got good leadership qualities.
“He’s exactly what we’re looking for in a centre half so hopefully he can come in, hit the ground running and push the other lads on as well.
“He’s at the stage now where he wants to go and forge a career and play senior football and we're giving them the opportunity to come in and play so it feels like a good fit.”
Cathal takes the number 31 shirt at Town.
Harrogate taekwondo master awarded MBE for long-standing contribution to sport
Harrogate dance group set for world record attempt
Gareth Southgate visits popular Harrogate pub
Classic car event set to return to Ripon
Ripon students take alcohol-free campaign to Parliament
Ripon's Grantley Hall named best place to stay in North and North East
Harrogate Mayor cuts ribbon at opening of new interior design shop
Celebrity chefs rally for Yorkshire children's cancer charity
Resurrected Bites CEO Michelle Hayes announces departure
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Harrogate recycling firm tips forecasts with £16.5m turnover despite tough trading
Cost to upgrade Harrogate Convention Centre increases by more than £2m
Taxi policy change could "finish off" industry, councillors warned
Call for decision on Maltkiln masterplan to be delayed
Ripon pupils raise over £9,000 for Parkinson's charity
Harrogate Fundraiser to share story of 9,000-mile unsupported bike ride to the himalayas
Harrogate pupils achieve distinctions across the board in drama exams
Harrogate hospital shortlisted for two national awards
Hampsthwaite school goes red to support children's heart charity
Harrogate Convention Centre upgrade reaches new milestone
