MOTHERWELL have been handed a huge boost ahead of their Europa Conference League match against Sligo Rovers – as their opponent’s goalkeeper has switched clubs just HOURS before kick-off.
The Steelmen face the Irish side tonight in the first leg of their second qualifying round tie at Fir Park.
Well made it into the competition, which is in only its second season, by virtue of their fifth-placed finish in the Premiership last year.
Sligo took third place in the League of Ireland Premier Division.
But they will now be without first choice keeper Ed McGinty, who has completed a transfer to EFL outfit Oxford United, after being the hero for the club in the previous round of the tournamen with some shootout heroics.
McGinty, 22 – who revealed he is a huge Celtic fan, despite being born in Motherwell – has joined the League One side on a three-year deal.
Read more Football stories
The shot-stopper told Oxford’s website upon signing: “I was aware there were a few clubs showing interest but I left all that to other people and just focussed on playing my football and doing my best in every game. Then when I heard of Oxford’s interest and I saw the way they looked after Luke McNally when he came from Ireland, I saw the facilities and as soon as I spoke to the Manager and heard the plans they have for the club, I knew I wanted to come here.
“It is a big step, moving away from home and settling in at a new club, but that’s exciting and all I want to do now is get started and do my best to make the most of this opportunity.”
Sligo had hoped McGinty would be available for tonight’s clash in North Lanarkshire, despite the impending transfer.
Speaking of his connection (or lack thereof) to Motherwell, McGinty said: “I’m a Celtic fan.
Most read in Football
“Basically I’m lying to everyone here!
“But it’s exciting. It’s only five or ten minutes from where I was brought up.
“I might stay in my gaff! It will be nice to go back there.”
Instead, it looks like veteran goalie Richard Brush, 37, will go between the sticks.
Meanwhile, Premier Sports have bought the broadcasting rights to Rangers’ first Champions League qualifying match against Union Saint-Gilloise.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page