Mayo FC land home-grown attacking midfielder

Mayo FC have announced the signing of attacking midfielder James McGrath as the club continues to build its first-team squad ahead of the inaugural FAI National League season.

The 26-year-old arrives after three seasons with Ballinamallard United, where he established himself as one of the NIFL Championship's most dangerous attacking players.

Last season he finished as the Fermanagh club's leading scorer with nine goals, adding seven assists along the way.

McGrath is a product of Kiltimagh Knock United and a former Westport United player, and now returns to represent his native county.

Speaking after the signing, McGrath said he was delighted to join Mayo FC.

He said the chance to represent his home county in the League of Ireland meant a lot to him, and that everyone at the club had been welcoming since his arrival.

He added that he was looking forward to the opportunity and eager for the season to get under way.

Mayo FC manager Anthony O'Neill said the club had admired McGrath for some time.

He described him as a creative midfielder with excellent technique who had consistently shown an ability to score and create goals at a high level.

O'Neill said bringing home talented Mayo players had always been central to the club's project, and that McGrath fit that vision perfectly.

He noted that McGrath, despite his experience, still had his best years ahead of him, and said the club was delighted to welcome him on board.