Crystal Palace have signed Killian Phillips from Ireland’s Drogheda United for an undisclosed fee.
Phillips scored two goals in 31 appearances for Drogheda last season since making his senior debut in April 2021, because the League of Ireland runs March – November compared to a more conventional British footballing season of August-May.
The 19 year-old midfielder will play within Palace’s Under-23s section of the club’s youth Academy after signing a two-year contract.
Speaking about his decision to join Palace, Phillips admitted that he feels “delighted” and “proud” to make the switch to Selhurst Park.
Phillips proceeded to share an antidote that U23s manager – Paddy McCarthy as he explained: “He said to me it’s like buying a home: when you walk into the right home you know it’s the right place, and that’s kind of how I felt at Crystal Palace the first day I walked in.”
McCarthy in turn spoke of his joy at securing Phillips’ services as he commented: “We are delighted to get Killian on board. He had a great season last year in the League of Ireland with Drogheda United and he fits the profile of young, hungry players we want at our club.”
On why the club decided to sign Phillips, McCarthy added: “We believe Killian has great potential to develop and all the attributes to have a career in the game.
“He will definitely add to the group both on and off the pitch with his experience of first-team football and I’m sure he will benefit from working with a fantastic group of young, hungry players in a top-class environment.”
Drogheda issued a statement in which they confirmed that Phillips will be a player who the team ‘will certainly miss but are excited to follow his progress at Crystal Palace.’
“He’s an exceptional talent and is proof that Drogheda United is a club that nurtures and develops young players to meet their potential,” said Drogheda Manager – Kevin Docherty of Phillips’ development throughout his time at United Park.
Phillips could make his U23s debut for Palace against Chelsea on Monday 17 January 2022 in a 7pm kick-off in the First Division of Premier League 2.
Leave a Reply