Ciaran Coll stays at Derry City, vows to fight for first XI spot

Ciaran Coll has vowed to fight for a spot in the first XI after signing a new deal at Derry City.

Coll has penned a 12-month contract at the Brandywell, which will see him enter a fifth season in the Candystripes in 2023.

Recruited by Declan Devine from Finn Harps in 2019, Coll as made 110 appearances for the club and won the FAI Cup this year.

“Ruaidhri (Higgins, manager) has put together a fantastic squad at the club and competition for places is fierce,” Coll said.

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“It was great to finish last season with a trophy and while we enjoyed the celebrations, we’ll back in pre-season soon and focused on going again.

‘I’m delighted to be part of it and like all the lads I’ll be working as hard as I can for my place.”

The 31-year-old St Johnston man came off the bench for the last eight minutes of the FAI Cup final, with Derry defeating Shelbourne 4-0 at the Aviva Stadium.

The full-back played 22 times for Derry this season, including 14 starts.

Higgins said: “Ciaran has been a very consistent performer during his time at Derry City and we look forward to more of the same.

“We are delighted he’s extending his stay at the club.”