Mooney on trial at Blackburn
by Nick Royle, 23 January 2008
Former Longford striker Dave Mooney’s expected move to Cork City could be scuppered by the shock interest of Premier League side Blackburn Rovers.
Last season’s eircom League of Ireland top scorer was expected to join up with former Longford boss Alan Mathews at Cork City, but setantasports.com can exclusively reveal that Mooney is currently in Lancashire for a trial with Blackburn.
Mathews has offered Mooney a contract at Turner’s Cross, but accepts that he will miss out on the striker if Mark Hughes decides to offer the 23-year-old a deal.
“We have spoken to him on a ongoing basis. We have put something to David which we think is a good offer.
"However, he is seeking to play in England, and seeking to play in the Premier League. He is at Blackburn Rovers this week, and they are taking a look at him.
“[For Cork City] This week is the crucial week where we will either confirm a deal, or pass on it.”
There was better news on another transfer target, former Cork midfielder George O’Callaghan.
The 28-year-old was released by Ipswich Town during the week, and is likely to rejoin his former club rather than suitors St. Patrick's Athletic and Bohemians.
“We have made no secret of the fact that we are interested in bringing George to the club,” Mathews continued.
“George’s circumstances have changed in the last few days with him being released by Ipswich Town. It maybe has accelerated and crystallised his thought processes about coming home.
“We do have to wait, however, as a couple of other clubs have shown interest in George as well."