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Eoghan O’Connell admits he enjoyed ‘six great years’ at Celtic after joining Bury on a three-year contract
The 21-year-old Irishman has linked up with former Kilmarnock manager Lee Clark at the English League One side after spending the second half of last season on loan at Walsall.
O’Connell, who joined the Hoops as a 16-year-old, made his debut in 2014 and featured seven times last term, including a Champions League outing against Barcelona.
But the defender admits it was time to move on from Celtic.
He said: “I had six great years, met some brilliant people and made friends for life.
“I have come to the stage in my career where I just want to play football all the time.
“The manager made it clear that he had a big interest in me and wanted me to come to the club.
“I know that Lee wanted me to go to Kilmarnock whilst he was managing there, but it just never happened at that time.
“It’s just very nice to be wanted and I’m just happy we could get it done this time. I am now just really keen to get the season underway and start working with the gaffer.
“I am at an age where I want to be playing all of the time and I enjoyed my time in the English League. There’s a bit more to it down here.
“Bury are looking to have a big season, they’ve made a big statement with the players that have signed.
“It was all done quite quickly, and I’m delighted to be here. I’m just looking forward to getting started now.”
Bury manager Clark said: “I’m thrilled that we were able to secure Eoghan’s signature as he’s a highly sought after young player.
“I obviously know a lot about Eoghan from my time up in Scotland. He has fantastic potential and is a player who has played Champions League football at such a young age in a strong Celtic side.”
