Newry snap up new shot stopper Conor Mitchell as their third January transfer window signing

Newry's third signing of the January transfer window: Conor Mitchell. Pic: Brendan Monaghan

New Newry City boss Barry Gray continues to be busy in the January transfer window, as the club announced the signing of Dungannon Swifts goalkeeper Conor Mitchell this afternoon.

Gray has been keen to bring in players who he previously coached, having already brought in Steven Ball from Warrenpoint Town and Brandon Doyle on loan from Crusaders, and Mitchell is no different, as he played under Gray at Warrenpoint Town.

Mitchell will be eligible to play right away, and may make his debut in tomorrow’s Sports Direct Premiership clash at home to Cliftonville.

The club announced the move via an online statement which read:

‘Newry City AFC are delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Conor Mitchell from Dungannon Swifts on a long-term permanent deal.

‘The 27-year-old moves to The Showgrounds having worked under new Manager Barry Gray at Warrenpoint Town for the last two seasons before moving to Stangmore Park last Summer.

‘The former Northern Ireland Under-21 international began his career at Premier League side Burnley, a part of the Turf Moor club until 2019, when he returned home to sign for Linfield.

‘He then joined Larne, helping them secure European football and playing in the Irish Cup Final defeat to Linfield in 2021, before moving to Warrenpoint.

‘Speaking to the club’s media team, Mitchell said: “I’m delighted to be on board and really looking forward to getting started. My aim is to come in and add something to the group, both on and off the pitch, and I believe I can do that.

“I’m excited to work with Barry again. We both know what to expect from each other and the standards that are required so hopefully I can come in and deliver some strong performances and collectively we can start putting points on the board.”

‘Manager Barry Gray says he’s delighted to be working with Mitchell once again, saying: “It’s great to get Conor done and over the line, again another player I have worked with in the past and a player that has much experience in the Premiership.

“The goalkeeping department has been an area that we needed to strengthen, as we only have one senior keeper, so Conor will be a great addition and will provide us with much need depth and experience in that position. I’m really looking forward to working with Conor again.”

‘Mitchell will go straight into the first team squad for tomorrow’s Sports Direct Premiership match at home to Cliftonville (3pm).’