Barnsley FC are delighted to confirm the signing of Neil Farrugia on a free transfer following his contract expiry at League of Ireland Premier Division Club Shamrock Rovers, subject to international clearance. Farrugia, who is a left wing-back who can also play on the right and further forward, joins the Reds on a two-and-a-half year deal. After a period at UCD, the 25-year-old joined Shamrock Rovers in 2019 and has gone on to make over 120 appearances for the Hoops, chipping in with 11 goals. Farrugia has represented the Republic of Ireland at Under 18 and Under 21 level and was called up to the Senior squad in 2023 for a summer training camp. Over the course of this season so far Neil has played in various European Competitions for Shamrock Rovers with his last goal coming in a 3-0 win over Borac in December and his final appearance for the Club being 73 minutes at Stamford Bridge in their game against Chelsea just over two weeks ago. "It feels brilliant," smiled Farrugia. "This is a big club full of ambitions and I'm really looking forward to it. I've come over to England for that new challenge, to take that next step and I'm going to embrace it." Barnsley FC Sporting Director Mladen Sormaz said, “Neil had a good number of options in both the last transfer window and this one but he sees an opportunity to progress here at Oakwell and we are really pleased to secure his services. This signing means we have great competition for the left-back position and Neil also has the ability to play further up the pitch and this versatility can only benefit Darrell’s squad. "He has also played in some big games this season which is also really important, Shamrock have been impressive in their European campaign this season and hopefully, Neil can bring that experience to Oakwell as we head into the business end of the campaign.” Farrugia will not be eligible to play in tomorrow’s home game against Crawley Town but will link up with his new teammates for training from today. Continue reading...
Nice early business in a position where we needed cover. Hopefully he can push Gent for a start with healthy competition. Credit to Sormaz for a change, & welcome aboard Neil!
Quite random but certainly a position we needed. The Shamrock fans seem to speak quite highly from what I’ve seen. Although I guess the standard will be a lot different.