Waterford FC is delighted to announce that the club has finalised the signing of Gavan Holohan from Galway United. Holohan becomes the 15th member of the Blues’ squad for its 2018 return to the top flight of Irish football.
A native of Kilkenny, Holohan spent four years at Hull City where he was youth team captain before moving onto Alfreton Town on loan. Returning to Ireland in 2013, Holohan went on to play for Drogheda United, Cork City and Galway United in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division.
Although he suffered heartache in 2017 as a result of the Tribesmen’s final day relegation, he made a big impression with 33 appearances in all competitions, weighing in with seven goals including a hat-trick against former club Drogheda Utd. at Eamonn Deacy Park. His form in 2017 attracted domestic and cross channel interest but ultimately he opted for a move closer to his native Kilkenny.
Speaking on signing for the Blues, Gavan said:
“There were a few things that attracted me to Waterford. I worked with Alan Reynolds at Cork and always got on really well with him. I liked how he went about things so I felt he was someone I’d like to work with again; someone who could get the best out of me.
“Obviously the club is heading in the right direction with the quality of players signed already and also with its fan base growing and growing again. The set up and facilities are second to none down here, so it’s a great environment in which to play football. Being a Kilkenny man, it’s only down the road for family and friends to come to see the home games, which is a big bonus for me.”
For Waterford FC fans, Holohan hopes to impress. He added:
“I’m looking forward to meeting and performing in front of the Blues’ fans. I’d see myself as a creative attack minded midfielder who will be hoping to chip in with a lot of assists and goals. Most important however, I plan to work hard for the team and the rest should fall into place after that.
“We have to get off to a good start first of all and that will dictate what kind of season we have, so if we can do that it’s about getting as high up the table as possible and pushing for a European place.”
Waterford FC Coach Alan Reynolds was delighted to sign Gavan and he reflected on his work with him during their time at Munster rivals Cork City. Reynolds said:
“I’m delighted that he has decided to join us and we’re happy to have a player of his experience on board ahead of the new season. He has already spent four seasons playing in the Premier Division – experience that will be invaluable for us. I worked with him during my time with Cork City. He is an exciting midfield player who will link the deeper lying midfielders with our front players. He has a proven eye for goal and for creating chances for team-mates; the fans will really enjoy the player we have brought on board.
“Our squad is taking shape now for 2018. Gavan is another strong addition but we still have business to complete in the New Year. We are back in as a unit on the 3rd January and we are still running our eyes over a few options ahead of getting back on the pitch then.”
