Lafferty deal looks done and dusted

30 January 2012 10:10
The Derry press this morning are reporting that Derry City Football Club have agreed a fee in the region of £150,000 for left back Daniel Lafferty who they expect to sign for Burnley today.

Speaking yesterday, Lafferty said he was sad to be leaving Derry but excited at starting the next chapter of his career. He added: "I Still have a few things to sort out when I get there but hopefully everything goes smoothly and everything will be sorted within the next few days.

"I am sad to be leaving Derry City because I have really enjoyed my team with the club. If it wasn't for people like Declan Devine (current manager) and Stephen Kenny (previous manager) I wouldn't be getting this chance."

Lafferty has been told by new Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill that playing at a higher level will do his international chances no harm at all. Lafferty said: "Even if I didn't leave Derry City I think Michael O'Neill would have been at the Brandywell to watch me and another few players.

"Michael texted me on Friday to say well done, so who knows what might happen in the future. Obviously playing in the Championship will catch the eye of the international manager but I'll just have to wait and  see."

He confirmed that he'd also spent time on trial in recent months at both Derby County and Brighton & Hove Albion. "I just wanted to persevere and work hard and thankfully it looks like it has paid off. I am very excited and I want everyone at Derry City to know who thankful I am. I am looking forward to being back at the Brandywell as a fan next season and cheering on the team."

Source: FOOTYMAD