Sligo Rovers sign Northern Irish winger Jamie McDonagh from Greenock Morton

Sligo Rovers have announced the signing of Northern Irish winger Jamie McDonagh from Scottish Championship side Greenock Morton.

The 21-year-old has opted to cut short his time in Scotland in order to move closer to his young family in Ireland and has provisionally signed until the end of the 2017 season.

Belfast native McDonagh – who was christened Jamie-Dean Cantona by his Manchester United-supporting family – played underage for Portadown and Linfield before signing terms with Sheffield United.

The former Northern Ireland under-21 international spent time on loan with Matlock Town, Chester and Alfreton Town before joining Morton ahead of the 2016-17 season.

McDonagh made 38 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish side, scoring twice, including once in the league.

"I was with Morton last season and I'd say I had a really good season. I played 38 games I think,” McDonagh told Sligo's official website.

“I missed home and I was living away from my baby so I thought it was best to move back home and try to get a team in Ireland or in Northern Ireland. I'm happy to be here and I think it'll be best for my career.

"It's a big club with a nice ground here. Everything has been great so far. I can't wait to get started.

"I can't wait to see what the atmosphere is like at the stadium and be playing with all of the lads here. Hopefully I get some game time and put in a good performance.

“I want to help us get out of this relegation battle. I'm going to try my best for the club. I know the gaffer will be pushing us on in every game and giving us that extra motivation to keep us up."

McDonagh is manager Gerard Lyttle's second signing of the day following the addition of former Crumlin United hitman Greg Moorhouse from Glenavon.