Fleet-footed winger Derek Daly is the latest player from the 2017 SSE Airtricity League First Division winning side to put pen to paper on a new deal with the club. Daly, a product of the Cherry Orchard youth set up in Dublin, spent time in England with Chesterfield FC before joining the Blues on deadline day in February this year. From then, the versatile Daly went from strength to strength over the course of the season, securing both the Club’s Young Player of the Year and Goal of the Year Awards.
Derek made his debut for the Blues on the opening day of the 2017 season, coming off the bench against Athlone Town, before going on to make a further 23 league appearances, bagging himself three goals in the process as well as chipping in with a number of crucial assists. With an ability to play at left back as well as further up the field on either flank, he will be aiming to make himself an automatic choice when the new season kicks off in the Premier Division in 2018.
Speaking on re-signing for the Blues, the Dubliner said:
“I am delighted to re-sign for the club for next season. I believe the club has great aspirations for the future and I have no doubt that we will have another successful year in 2018. I am looking forward to the challenge of proving ourselves in the Premier Division and hope that we can compete at the top end of the table.”
Commenting on what made him commit for the 2018 season, he had praise for Waterford FC both on and off the field, adding:
“Personally, I felt I had a very good 2017 season for the club and fitted into the team well. The fans were excellent right through and warmed to me which made decision to re-sign for the club that much easier.”
First Team Coach Alan Reynolds was pleased to see Derek commit for another year. Reynolds said:
“Derek had to work his way into the side in his first season after a spell in England but when he did, he kicked on and grew in confidence. Some of his link-up play was excellent and he settled very well into the team. He has shown an ability on the ball to take on his man and deliver crosses and set pieces that make him an asset for us in 2018. I was also pleased with his heart and defensive work which will be crucial again next season.”
