'Return of one of their own': Finn Harps confirm addition of Joel Bradley Walsh

Darren Murphy has told Finn Harps fans he has returned “one of their own” to Finn Park with confirmation that Joel Bradley Walsh has signed for the 2025 season.

The Ballybofey man previously played for Harps at senior level in 2021, making his debut against St Patrick’s Athletic.

Bradley Walsh came through the Harps Academy, playing at U17 and U19 levels. The now 23-year-old captained Harps U19s.

After a loan spell at Institute, Bradley Walsh turned his focus to Gaelic football, representing Sean MacCumhaills and Donegal.

“We’re delighted to welcome Joel back to the football club and have him signed up for the coming season.,” Murphy said.

“He’s a young local lad who grew up on the terraces, was a fantastic player during his time in the Finn Harps Academy and knows what it means to the supporters.”

Last summer, the defender signed for Letterkenny Rovers and he made 11 appearances for the Leckview Park side.

His appearance in a recent friendly against Dergview drew the ire of Stephen McConnell, the Rovers manager who claimed there had been an agreement that the player wouldn’t feature in advance of an FAI Junior Cup game against Mervue, which Bradley Walsh had to sit out with an injury.

Murphy said: “He’s been in with us the last few weeks and has really impressed me and the other coaches so we’re really pleased to have him with us for the coming season. 

“He adds a bit of steel in that area of the pitch and is capable of playing in a couple of positions which is always a massive boost in this league. 

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“There will be a bit of a learning curve now with the jump in standard but I’m looking forward to working with Joel and I’m sure the fans will be delighted to see the return of one of their own.”