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Waterford FC are thrilled to announce fans’ favourite Barry Baggley has been appointed captain ahead of the start of the 2024 League of Ireland season.

Baggley recently re-joined the Blues on loan from Fleetwood Town, after initially spending the duration of the 2023 season on loan with Keith Long’s side, and will lead the side for the coming year as Premier Division football returns to the RSC.

The 22-year-old had a hugely successful season with the Blues in 2023, playing an integral part in the Blues’ season that ended with promotion against Cork City in the Promotion/Relegation Final at the start of November.

Barry returned to Fleetwood at the end of our 2023 campaign, before receiving an international call-up for the Northern Ireland U21s against England in Goodison Park. Baggley played for a Fleetwood Town XI against Waterford at the beginning of January, before re-signing for the Blues the following week.

Speaking on the appointment, Barry said:

“I’m delighted to be named club captain for the season, It really gives me a boost of confidence that the manager has shown his trust in me to lead the team this year.”

“I always try to set an example on and off the pitch by trying to do the right things and being someone that everyone can look to when the chips are down. I’m looking forward to the season ahead and can’t wait to get going.”

Head Coach Keith Long was delighted to announce Barry as Waterford FC’s club captain for the 2024 season, commenting:

“I’m delighted to be able to name Barry as captain for the upcoming season. He was integral in-terms of what we did last year – he was one of our most outstanding players throughout the year and he was deservedly awarded Young Player of the Year at the end of the campaign.”

“He’s a great guy. His work ethic, his attitude, his way around the dressing room, his way around the club, he endears himself to a lot of people, he’s what you look for in a captain. He has those leadership qualities; He leads by example on a football pitch. He never complains, he’s honest, he works extremely hard, and he’s got good quality.”

“I don’t think anyone in the dressing room was surprised by the decision when we made the announcement in any way, I think the Blues supporters will enjoy him being captain of the club – no doubt a popular decision as far as I’m concerned.”

Congratulations on your appointment, Barry!