Newry City's John McGovern pursuing a spot on the Down panel

Newry City footballer John McGovern intends to pursue a spot on the Down panel. It’s believed that McGovern will balance his commitments between both Gaelic football and soccer.
By Kieran Lynch
Published 21st Feb 2024, 19:53 BST
Updated 21st Feb 2024, 20:04 BST
John McGovern has left Newry City to focus on breaking into the Down Senior panel. Pic: ©INPHO/Declan RoughanJohn McGovern has left Newry City to focus on breaking into the Down Senior panel. Pic: ©INPHO/Declan Roughan
John McGovern has left Newry City to focus on breaking into the Down Senior panel. Pic: ©INPHO/Declan Roughan

The Ballyholland club player warmed up with the Mourne men ahead of their most recent game against Antrim at Corrigan Park.

The news will come as a welcome boost to Conor Laverty and Marty Clarke as they look to navigate Down’s promotion out of Division 3 and have a successful Ulster Championship campaign.

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McGovern will no doubt have been on the pair’s radar since they took the job at the beginning of last season, as he played a starring role in their Down U20 side which won the Ulster title in 2021.

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He is undoubtedly a talented Gaelic footballer, but having played international football with Northern Ireland U21s and been a key player for Newry City, he elected to focus on soccer over the last number of years. He has been linked with moves away from Newry to Cliftonville and Dundalk FC in recent times.

Newry City, who are fighting to maintain their Sports Direct Premiership status, will be relieved that they can still call upon the service of one of their star players. They are five points adrift of safety with nine games to play.

Both Newry City and Down play in close proximity this Saturday, with Newry hosting Coleraine at The Showgrounds at 3pm, whilst Down face Offaly at Pairc Esler at 6pm.

Related topics:AntrimUlster