Bohemian FC is delighted to confirm that academy player Christopher Conlan has signed his first professional contract with the club.
The 17-year-old midfielder from Ashbourne has come through the academy system from U15 level.
He most recently featured on the first team substitutes bench for the first time in Bohs’ final game of the season 10 days ago.
Conlan said: “This is a special day for me. I’m a massive Bohs fan so this means a lot to me.
“It meant a lot to me to be named on the bench against Galway United. I was about to come on too but the referee blew the final whistle before I could!
“But to go from being in the Jodi Stand every week with my friends to being on the bench for the first team felt a bit surreal, but it definitely gave me a taste of what I want to be a part of.
“As a player, I feel I am good on the ball and good at getting forward and creating chances. There are great players in my position at the club and I’m really looking forward to learning from them and the coaches here.
“The likes of Ross Tierney and Dawson Devoy have shown that there is a pathway for players at the club and I want to learn from them.”
Bohemian FC Head of Academy Trevor Croly said: “Chris signing his first deal is great for Chris and is great for Bohemians.
“He is a Bohemians fan, goes to all the games, which makes it extra sweet, but this is very much a footballing decision because we really value Chris as a footballer.
“He has worked extremely hard, is a brilliant prospect and is fully deserving of a pro deal.
“He’s a beautiful footballer. He’s a No 10, and the style of footballer I believe Bohs fans love to watch.
“I think he has a great future ahead of him and we are looking forward to working with him and helping him realise his potential with the club.”