SIGNING NEWS: Connor McManus joins Morton
We are delighted to announce the signing of former Celtic midfielder Connor McManus on a six month contract until 31 December 2017.
The 21-year-old, who enjoyed loans spells with Alloa Athletic and Queen of the South in recent seasons, joined in with his first training session at Parklea today before agreeing terms and putting pen to paper afterwards.
His registration was processed this afternoon, ensuring his eligibility to face Motherwell in tomorrow’s Betfred Cup tie at Fir Park, and manager Jim Duffy was delighted to be able to bring him on board.
Speaking exclusively to gmfc.net, he said: “Connor is a talented player who was very well schooled at Celtic. He is 21 years of age and is a player I think has a lot to give.
“His background in terms of his personality, everyone is glowing in their reference to him, so I’m sure he’ll fit in very well amongst the boys.
“He’s actually a player who was available and who we’ve actually spoken about a few times in recent weeks, and he should be available tomorrow.
“After Tuesday and just looking at the squad, I just felt we needed a little bit more depth to it and a little bit more cover in key areas, and I think Connor can do that.
“Then, obviously, it’s up to him to challenge the established guys there to see whether he can force himself in on a regular basis – and he’s happy to take that challenge on.”
Duffy moved to add to his squad after defender Ricki Lamie joined fellow defenders Thomas O’Ware and Lee Kilday on the treatement table following Tuesday’s Betfred Cup tie against Queen’s Park.
And he explained: “Ricki picked up an injury in midweek and we aren’t quite sure if it’s going to be a few days or a few weeks. Either way, it’s left us short in certain key areas.
“Although Connor is a defensive midfield player, he can play in the defensive area as well, and I thought that was key to bringing someone in. Because if Ricki is fit and Thomas and Lee get back, we may well be well covered in that area.”
Image: Jonathan Mitchell
