By Logan Smith
Southern League champions Christchurch United have continued adding to their squad, announcing the signing of Irish attacker Eoghan Stokes.
Stokes (26), described by United as a striker, comes to the club after playing stints in the Republic of Ireland, England, and Scotland.
Stokes came through the Leeds United academy and spent six years at the club, but only made one first-team appearance, in the EFL Cup in 2017.
After Leeds, he went on to feature for League of Ireland clubs Bohemians, Derry City and Cork City, netting a combined eight goals in 62 games.
After playing in the Scottish lower leagues for Airdrieonians and Dumbarton, he arrives at United Sports Centre with a strong CV. He also represented the Republic of Ireland at U-16, U-17 and U-19 levels.
Stokes’ signing boosts the club’s forward line, having lost winger Eddie Wilkinson over the summer.
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United signed another former League of Ireland player, centre-back Aaron O’Driscoll (23), who scored and was sent off in his Southern League debut.
READ MORE: Christchurch United sign age group international with big club pedigree >>>>
Christchurch United are in second place in the Southern League after one round, when they defeated Green Island 3-0.
They take on Coastal Spirit at Linfield Park this Sunday (April 2).
Southern League
Coastal Spirit v Christchurch United
Linfield Park, Christchurch, 12pm
Nelson Suburbs v Cashmere Technical
Saxton Fields, Nelson, 12pm
READ MORE: Southern League splits into two camps after first round of fixtures >>>>
Logan Smith
Logan Smith is a passionate football fan and volunteer, based in Dunedin, covering the Southern League.