Dundalk FC bolster 2023 squad with a trio of new signings

It has taken a little longer then expected but Dundalk FC have really upped their recruiting game with three new signings announced by the club in the last 48 hours.

Connor Malley, Hayden Muller and Cameron Elliot were all unveiled as Lilywhites for the coming season, as Stephen O'Donnell looks to build his squad ahead of what looks to be tough year ahead.

First up was Connor Malley, a 22-year old midfielder from Newcastle. An impressive underage career saw him feature for the likes of Sunderland, Newcastle and the Middlesbrough academies. He went on to sign a professional deal at Boro, before going out on loan to Carlisle United, Ayr United and Gateshead.

Following six years on their books, Malley made the switch to Rochdale on a short term move back in August. He made 14 appearances before his contract ended earlier this month.   

“Connor’s a good height, has a good frame and he has a lot of ability,” said Dundalk head coach Stephen O’Donnell. “He’s a player I’m really excited by and I can’t wait to see him in a Dundalk jersey. He will add quality, imagination and creativity to our midfield so we’re delighted to get him done.

“We cast our net far and wide with our research and when Connor came on our radar and when we watched him, we instantly liked what we saw. He’s a player who jumps out for his natural ability and I’m sure he’ll really get the fans excited."

Next up is defender Hayden Muller, who arrive at Oriel Park as part of multi-year deal from Milwall.

Born in Croydon, Muller progressed through the academy system at Millwall and made his first-team debut for the Lions against Huddersfield Town on the final day of the 2019-2020 Championship campaign.

He made another three appearances the following season before signing for St Johnstone on a season-long loan in the summer of 2021.

The Londoner made eight appearances for the SPL side, seven of them starts, before he was recalled by his parent club in January 2022. His final appearance for Millwall came in a 2-0 loss against Sheffield United last August.

“I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “I had a look around and got a feel for the place and the lads have been very welcoming.

“I know Alfie Lewis, and Louie Annesley is also from London so it’s always good to have people like that around to help you settle in a lot quicker.”

Finally we have Scottish striker Cameron Elliot, a signing that could help take some of the burden off the club's star attacking option Pat Hoban.

The 23-year-old, who spent time at St Mirren as a youngster, joins from Lowland League side East Kilbride where he scored 15 goals in just 21 appearances this season.

“It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the chance to play for Dundalk and the success the club has had over the past 10 years was a massive factor in me signing.

“The aim for me now is to continue on where I left off at East Kilbride. Obviously, it’s a different level but it’s something I’m really looking forward to. I feel fit and strong and I can’t wait to get going.”

Elliot was Dundalk's fourth new signing this week, while the squad was also bolstered by the news Robbie Benson had signed a new long term deal at Oriel Park. He was the 15th player from last year to commit to the Lilywhites.