SEAMUS Conneely has got international clearance and will be available for selection for tomorrow night’s home match with Bury.
Conneely, 26, signed an 18 month contract with the Reds this week from Sligo Rovers and is hoping to make a big impact League Two.
The former Republic of Ireland Under 21 and Under 23 international began his career at Galway before he was snapped up by Sheffield United in 2010 for a fee believed to be around £60,000.
It didn’t work out for the versatile player and he returned to Sligo, winning the League of Ireland and the FAI Cup, before John Coleman took over there last season.
Coleman was impressed with Conneely and he has been training with the Reds before signing his deal.
“It’s a great move for me,” said Seamus. “I have been training here and have settled in so it’s good to sign a deal.
“It’s nice to know that the manager has brought you here having worked with you before, not from a recommendation from someone else.
“I’m used to the gaffer and Jimmy (Bell), I’ve played under them and I know what they like and don’t like, how they train and how they expect people to be around the training ground and on a match day. It’s a real advantage for me.
“Ever since the end of my season in Ireland in November I’ve been following Accrington’s progress and how Seani (Sean Maguire) and John O’Sullivan were doing. They both hit the ground running and made an impact here and I’ll be looking to carry that on.”
Conneely admitted he was disappointed it didn’t work out at the Blades but is now ready to establish himself in English football.
“When I left Sheffield United and went back to the League of Ireland I was hoping that I would get back over to England at some point.
“I really enjoyed my time at Sligo and it’s just fortunate really that a manager who has taken a liking to me has got a job over here and given me the chance. It’s up to me now to take that chance.
“I like playing in the centre of midfield, in a holding midfield role. I can also play right back and I played centre back for the gaffer at Sligo at times so if I’m in the starting eleven then I’m happy anywhere really!”