O’Connor moves on

Daire O’Connor has penned an open letter to Cliftonville supporters following his move to Ayr United.

The 24-year-old scored eight goals in 39 appearances for the Reds after joining early last season and particularly enjoyed the feat of registering the first strike following the return of supporters to Solitude in the closing weeks of the 2020/21 campaign.

As well as thanking Manager Paddy McLaughlin and Chairman Gerard Lawlor, O’Connor also laments the fact he was never privileged to experience the full Red Army roar due to attendance restrictions but looks forward to doing so in a future visit to Solitude.

“Unfortunately, my time at Cliftonville FC has come to an end,” he writes.

“It has been extremely enjoyable playing for a Club of such stature, fan base and history. I would like to thank Paddy, Gerard and all the backroom staff for taking a gamble by bringing me to Cliftonville last October.

“I have loved my time at the Club and particularly the latter end of the season when I was able to integrate with the fans for the first time. The Club is one big family and I am delighted I was able to a part of it in my short time here.

“I’ve decided to pursue a new challenge, in a new League and embrace a new full-time environment. I’ll certainly remain a big Cliftonville fan and I look forward to visiting a packed out Solitude soon and witness what I should’ve seen every week last year!

All the best for the coming season,

Daire!”

Everyone at Cliftonville is similarly appreciative of Daire’s efforts during his time at Solitude and we wish him very well as he embarks upon the next stage of his career in the Scottish Championship.