Irish loan duo depart Crewe Alexandra

EFL League Two side Crewe Alexandra have confirmed the departures of Irish duo Kevin O’Connor and Corey Whelan from the club.

O’Connor is a previous FAI Cup winner with Cork City in 2016 on loan from Preston North End while the English-born Corey Whelan returns to his parent club Liverpool after impressing at the Alexandra Stadium.

While at Crewe, O’Connor failed to really deliver at the club having only made one appearance for the club while Whelan on the other hand was a revelation at the struggling League two outfit.

With 18 appearances to his name at the club, Whelan established himself as a pivotal member of manager David Artell’s side with his raw talent having impressed at the underage grades at Liverpool’s academy set-up.

“I had a good long chat with Corey. He has been terrific, I have to say.

"I think he’s played 17-18 times and he’s got half a chance of having a good career.

"He’s got some learning to do and some bits, and he was thankful." Artell said on Whelan’s departure.

"Kevin was a bit different as he’s a bit older and it’s not quite happened for him.

"But he was admirable, and he did the job when he was called upon.

"Corey and Kevin will go back to their respective clubs, Liverpool and Preston, and we thank them for their time and their efforts."