It's Cork week here on Balls.ie, so the news that a certain striker has extended his contract with The Leesiders couldn't have arrived at a better time.
Cork City fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the club has confirmed that forward, Sean Maguire, has put pen to paper ahead of the 2017 League of Ireland season.
Having scored over twenty goals last season, the majority of the Turners Cross faithful realised that if they were to have any opportunity of ending Dundalk's chances of another title in 2017, Maguire would have to be part of the squad.
Following Maguire's FAI Cup final heroics, he was heavily linked with a move back to England - in particular, Preston North End. So the sight of a smiling John Caulfield - wearing a rather festive coloured jumper - standing next to the man in question would have felt like Christmas come early for City fans.
BREAKING | @Seani_Maguire_ has signed a new contract with Cork City FC. Read more: https://t.co/vOF3iqKZxO #CCFC84 pic.twitter.com/9iPyoSfRto
— Cork City FC (@CorkCityFC) December 5, 2016
Speaking to Cork City's club website, Sean Maguire expressed his delight;
I am absolutely delighted; I owe it to Cork City and John (Caulfield) for what they did for me this time last season. John took a gamble on me coming down here and, after the season I have had, I owe Cork City another season at least. We want to have another crack at the league, because that is what this club deserves.
It was a great season, but we want to go that one step further next season and hopefully win the league. When I met John this time last year, he told me he was going to give me the opportunity and it was up to me to take it. He played me in the first few games and I repaid his faith by scoring goals and continued that form throughout the season.
I was enjoying my football, everything both on and off the pitch because the group of players and staff here are the best I have been involved with; I can’t wait to get started again for next season. When you are in a team that is confident, surrounded by good players, it gives you confidence and if I start well, I am sure I can have another good season.
Maguire was subject to interest from England, but per Alan Smith of the Guardian, there were concerns over his height.
It all means that we will be hearing plenty of this next season...
🔥🔥🔥🔥 #CCFC84 https://t.co/8O6EJ0FA2A
— Mick Ring (@MickRing83) December 5, 2016
