Shamrock Rovers sign former Derry City left-back Danny Lafferty following Sheffield United release

Shamrock Rovers have won the race to sign former Derry City full-back Danny Lafferty following his departure from Sheffield United.

The 30-year-old had been linked with champions Dundalk and clubs in England and Scotland but has opted to link up with the Hoops.

Lafferty made one appearance for the Blades last season as they were promoted to the Premier League in second place.

He was unable to oust former Hoop Enda Stevens from the left wing-back slot at Bramall Lane and he spent the second half of the season on loan at Peterborough United.

The Derryman had previously spent five years with Burnley, whom he helped to promotion to the Premier League, and had spells on loan with Rotherham United and Oldham Athletic.

Lafferty, who was a trainee with Oxford United and Celtic, was a First Division winner with the Candystripes in the first of his two seasons at the Brandywell, in 2010.

"Danny had a few offers,” said Hoops boss Stephen Bradley.

“He's been talking to a few clubs in England but he and his wife decided that they wanted to move home. Once we heard that we moved to sign him very quickly.

“He's a very good footballer, a very attacking player and a good age for us. He ticks a lot of boxes that we want. It's a very good signing for us.

“With Trevor Clarke gone, we felt it was an area that we needed to strengthen and it's another quality left-footed player in the squad so we're delighted to get him in.

“If you look at his career he's played at a really high level throughout. He has massive experience at club and international level.

“He's had two promotions to the Premier League with two different clubs and I think that speaks for itself in terms of the quality he has and the level he's played at.

“When you sit down and speak to him and you see he still has that hunger and desire to go and be successful. That was important for us as well.”