Soccer:Ger O'Brien has signed for Sporting Fingal making the former Derry City defender Liam Buckley's third signing ahead of a new campaign in the top flight.

The ex-Ireland under-23 international follows the double-signing of Ronan Finn and Brendan Clarke as Buckley attempts to strengthen his squad.

O’Brien, voted Shamrock Rovers player of the year in 2007 before moving to the Candystripes at the start of last season, had offers from other Premier Division teams as well as interest from clubs in Scotland.

“It’s fantastic news that Ger O’Brien has completed his move to us today,” said Buckley. “His quality and experience provides us with added strength in defence which will be a vital area for the long campaign ahead next season.

“Ger has been a proven record in the top-flight for the past number of years with Shamrock Rovers and Derry City. He was the first-choice right-back for the Ireland under-23 team last year and I believe he possesses the ability to develop his game even more with Sporting Fingal into the future.

“I’m aware that Ger had a number of options available to him both here and abroad. However, I’m thrilled he’s chosen to sign for us due to our swift progress both on and off the pitch since joining the league two years ago and the plans we have to expand the project further into the Fingal area.”