Athlone Town boost men's squad with three signings

By Kevin O'Neill

Athlone Town have announced three further additions as they continue preparations for the 2026 League of Ireland season, including the re-signing of last year's club captain Kyle O'Connor.

The midlands club endured a turbulent campaign in 2025, finishing bottom of the First Division. But manager Ian Ryan has been bidding to improve the club's fortunes by already recruiting veteran goalkeeper Brendan Clarke, a two-time First Division medal winner, and former Longford defender Oisin Hand.

Now, as well as the re-signing of Kyle O'Connor, former Town defender Evan O'Connor, most recently of Treaty United in Limerick, has signed for the club. He has a good track record in the First Division having previously won promotion with Galway United.

Brian McManus, a midfielder who has played for Bohemians, Shelbourne and UCD, has also penned a deal for next season with Athlone.

Athlone recently announced a spate of departures from the club including former captain and Ballinasloe native Oisin Duffy, who spent five years in the first team having initially come through the club's academy.