Derry City complete deal for highly-rated teenage keeper Shea Callister

Derry City FC have announced the arrival of goalkeeper, Shea Callister, who has joined the club on a 2-year deal, pending international clearance.

The Liverpool-born 19-year old started last season at Hull City before moving to Macclesfield, and played as a trialist for the Candystripes in the recent Billy Kee Cup game against Institute.

Shea, who is manager Tiernan Lynch's tenth signing ahead of the new season, has become an instant hit with his City team-mates and says Derry has become a home from home for him in a very short time.

"I love it here; the people are so friendly and their values are so similar to people in Liverpool" he said.

"The boys have made me so welcome and the banter has been great.

"I like a bit of that to be fair. It's important to be focused on your game, absolutely, but you need to be able to enjoy it as well.

"Brian (Maher) has been brilliant. He has taken me under his wing and it's a big opportunity for me to work with someone like him.

"Fenno (Anthony Fennelly) has been great too, and I know I'm in a dressing room with a lot of quality players.

"Hopefully Brian and I will push each other over the next few seasons and I'm delighted to be part of what could be an exciting time here."

Manager Tiernan Lynch said that the teenager was someone he felt would really benefit from being involved in the senior set-up.

"He seems to be a good kid and he's already making his presence felt around the place.

"Shea knows he has a lot to learn but he'll be working with the right people here and he'll have every opportunity to progress.

"It's great for Shea that he's on a pro contract because he has the time now to get his head down and really push on."

The club have already added significant depth and quality across the pitch over the last few weeks: James McClean (Wrexham), free transfer; Henry Rylah (Charlton Athletic), season-long loan; Kévin dos Santos (Atlético Ottawa), two-year deal; Josh Thomas (Swansea City), loan deal; Darragh Markey (Drogheda United), free transfer; Rob Slevin (Galway United), free transfer; Patrick McClean (Sligo Rovers), permanent transfer; James Olayinka (Waterford), free transfer; and James Clarke (Bohemians), free transfer.

The Candystripes begin their league campaign at home against Sligo Rovers tomorrow night (Friday).