David Harrington completed his move from Cork City to Fleetwood Town today and declared: ‘I’m here to fight for my place’.
The highly regarded goalkeeper, 22, had been lined up by Everton until a shoulder cartilage injury scuppered a move.
That left the door open for League One Fleetwood who sealed the deal before Christmas and confirmed the switch today.
Harrington - who is eligible for Wales and on their radar - has signed a three-and-a-half year deal for an undisclosed fee.
Celtic legend Scott Brown is Fleetwood manager and Harrington said: “When I came to see the gaffer for the first time, he was really keen on getting me on board.
“He said he wanted to do the deal as soon as possible as he was impressed with my form at Cork City. He sold me the club.
“Me and my Dad came over and what the club did for my old man and myself was amazing and that was a big factor why I came here.”
Harrington - the son of former Cork City keeper Phil Harrington - made 33 league appearances for the Rebels since making his debut in 2021.
And after steering the Leesiders to the First Division title this year, and back to the Premier Division, he was named in the PFA Ireland First Division ‘Team of the Year’.
Cork City boss Colin Healy said: “David is another academy graduate who has done very well for us since he came into the first team.
“He is now moving on to the next step of his career and we thank him for his service to the club and wish him the very best of luck for the future.”
Harrington, who is still sidelined with that shoulder issue, joins forces with former League of Ireland players Phoenix Patterson and Promise Omochere at the Cods.
Fleetwood and Waterford are both owned by Andy Piley who snapped up Patterson from the Blues before Christmas, while Omochere moved from Bohemians last summer.
Harrington said: "I’m coming into the unknown but having the belief from the manager and others around you, it gives you a confidence boost.
“I’m just looking forward to the future and getting back fit, getting back out onto the grass and working with the goalkeeper coach.
“I’m ready to work hard, fight for my place and play as many games as I can."
