Pat McCourt

Paddy is recognised to be one of the outstanding talents in the League of Ireland and City fans count their blessings that the midfielder turns out for the Candystripes.

Having spent time at Rochdale, McCourt was the subject of a 1.5m bid from Manchester City and played for Northern Ireland against Spain at Windsor Park. However that was to the height of his success at Rochdale and he was released in February 2005.

He spent time on trial with Motherwell before joining Shamrock Rovers, despite interest from City. McCourt immediately set the League alight and single handedly tore City apart, scoring twice for Rovers during a 3-2 win at the Brandywell.

However ongoing financial problems at Rovers meant that he eventually signed for City.

McCourt won the PFAI Young Player of the Year Award in 2005 and has gone from strength to strength since.

A tricky winger who can play on either side, McCourt has fantastic dribbling skills and has the acclaim of many neutrals who class him as one of the most exciting players in the League.

Last season, Paddy hit his best goalscoring form for Derry City, scoring 6 goals in 31 appearances.

Last updated Feb 2008