Derry boost title hopes by landing Matty Smith

Derry City have reinforced the theory that they could be genuine SSE Airtricity Premier Division title contenders this season by signing Matty Smith from St Patrick's Athletic.

The 24-year old began his career at his hometown club Dundee United before joining Waterford in 2020. He moved to Inchicore at the start of last year and was top goalscorer for St Pat's as they finished second in the league and won the FAI Cup.

Smith had interest from a number of clubs, including the Saints and Sligo Rovers, but has opted to pen a two-year-deal at the Ryan McBride Brandywell.

He joins a list of some of the stars of the league in moving to Derry such as Michael Duffy, Will Patching, Patrick McEleney and Brian Maher.

Derry boss Ruaidhri Higgins said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome Matty to the club.

"He will add to the exciting attacking options we already have here, and myself along with all the coaching staff are really excited to get working with him."

The player himself said he was coming to Derry looking to compete for trophies.

"The club has brought in some quality players recently and along with the lads who were already there, it's now a really strong squad.

"I am very impressed with what Ruaidhri is building here. I obviously worked with Alan Reynolds (Derry assistant) at Waterford and know how good a coach he is.

"I’ve been to the Brandywell before and even with few fans in you always knew you were in for a tough game.

"I’m really excited to be a part of this and am very much looking forward to playing in front of a packed house there."