Title-winning defender Iarfhlaith Davoren signs for Galway United as a player-coach

Galway United have announced the return of Iarfhlaith Davoren to the club for a third spell to take up a position as a player-coach.

Davoren, a former FAI Cup and league title winner with Sligo Rovers, joins the Tribesmen after stints at the Bit O’Red, Cork City, Tulsa Roughnecks and as player-coach with PSC FC in California.

The 32-year-old defender also spent time Longford Town and Athlone Town in the First Division alongside a spell with Danske Bank Premier League side Institute. 

Davoren’s return comes shortly after the arrival of Vinny Faherty to the club, who have both added much experience and quality to the Dyke Road outfit.

“I saw this as the perfect opportunity to get back involved with Galway United.” Davoren told the club’s official website.

“I’m keen to continue my progression as a coach and I’m also very excited about playing in the coming season. I’m currently studying for a Masters in Sports Performance.

“When I saw that Alan [Murphy, manager] was back involved last year, I touched base with him as I was considering returning to Ireland.

“We met on a number of occasions in the off-season and I was hugely impressed with the plans he has been putting in place for the team and the club as a whole.

“It’s a talented young squad that is benefiting from a few more experienced heads and it’s a great fit for me.”

Murphy added: “Iarfhlaith Davoren is exactly what this group needs at this present moment in time.

“For ProjectDNA, we’ve identified the sort of people we want at the club and as a serious professional that really wants to buy into the project, Iarfhlaith fits the bill perfectly.

“Iarfhlaith will come in as a player-coach and will be invaluable to bridge that gap between players and coaches, and he is looking forward to working in that capacity.”