The curtain had barely closed on Galway United’s successful season back in the top flight before John Caulfield was in front of United fans to take their questions last Sunday night.
He came bearing gifts, confirming that Brendan Clarke and Patrick Hickey had signed on for 2025. Both surely had suitors elsewhere. Clarke’s superlative form, at the ripe old age of 39, earned him a spot in the Team of the Year, as voted by the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland.
Hickey’s performances have similarly won neutral acknowledgment, with the American having won the league’s August Player of the Month award. Hickey’s meteoric rise has been emblematic of the team’s fortunes. A raw recruit from Athlone, he served his time learning the system before making a massive contribution in the second half of the season.
Inevitably, there were also stories surrounding outgoings. Francely Lomboto has been nurtured by United since 2020 and his departure is tinged with some regret. An exciting and industrious talent, he should still enjoy a good career in the League of Ireland. Nonetheless, there was a buoyant atmosphere at the end of season gathering.
It was a far cry from two years previous, when Caulfield came to such meetings to defend his record after playoff disappointment. His work will still be cut out to deliver on increasing expectations. Recruitment will pose the most serious challenge. There are some squad members under contract until 2025, but there is always a need to bolster the ranks.
This will have to take place in a climate where sides such as Bohemians are expected to improve. There is also the prospect of increased UEFA solidarity funding which will increase competition for players and their expectations of terms. It all means an intriguing off-season that will keep Galway United fans engaged. The drama of the season finale in Derry and Tallaght has only whetted the appetite for a strengthening league. Can United strengthen with it is the question.
