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Newry City AFC have signed centre-back Caolan Marron from Dungannon Swifts, with the Newry native joining his hometown club ahead of the new season. The 27-year-old becomes Manager Stuart King's second signing of the summer, following the arrival of striker Ryan Swan at the end of May.
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Marron brings considerable experience to Newry City, having made over 250 top-level appearances for Glenavon, Glentoran and Dungannon in the Premiership and in European football. The former Northern Ireland Under-21 international has made no secret of his delight at pulling on the blue and white stripes.
"I'm absolutely buzzing to have signed for Newry. It's my hometown club and I can't wait to get going," said Marron. "I'm absolutely a Newry man and I come down to follow the club whenever I get the chance. So for me to come here was a no-brainer for me."
The defender has set his sights firmly on helping the club return to the top flight. "I'm coming in to try and get the club back to where it should be - in the Premiership," he added.
Manager Stuart King was equally pleased to get the deal over the line. "I'm absolutely delighted to get this signing done," he said. "I did some television work at the Dungannon v Carrick European Play-Off game recently and I thought he was one of the best players on the pitch and capped off a superb performance with an unbelievable goal. In no way did I think that three weeks later we would be able to sign him."
King highlighted what Marron will add to the squad. "Caolan is a top level player with loads of experience and he'll not only massively improve us, but will lead from the front. When speaking to Caolan, his attitude and desire to play for his hometown club was really evident. He spoke passionately about wanting to play for his hometown club, something his father wishes to happen too. We're delighted to make that a reality."
The manager also paid tribute to those who helped make the transfer happen. "I have to thank our board for all their support in getting this transfer done and to Dungannon Swifts for their co-operation throughout this process," King added.
Marron's signing follows the addition of Striker Ryan Swan. Thirty year-old Swan will join the club on expiration of his contract with Annagh United. He moves to The Showgrounds, having enjoyed spells with Warrenpoint Town, as well as League of Ireland sides Bohemians and Cabinteely, following a stint with Exeter City earlier in his career. Speaking after the announcement Swan said “This is a big club, a sleeping giant. I want to be here to try and get us back to the Premiership.”
