Imps Add Young Exciting Midfielder as Fourth Signing
City’s squad building continues as a fourth signing comes through the door on a free transfer.
Lincoln City signing JJ McKiernan photographed at the club’s LNER Stadium, Lincoln, Lincolnshire. Date: July 1, 2024 Picture: Andrew Vaughan for Lincoln City FC
The Imps have signed exciting young midfielder, JJ McKiernan, following his departure from League Two side, Morecambe.
McKiernan started out with then Premier League side, Watford, coming up through the ranks with the Hornets. Despite not making an appearance during his time at Vicarage Road, he spent time out on loan at Bohemians and in the National League with Eastleigh, where he made 41 appearances and was a key part in the squad that finished ninth that season.
He wouldn’t stay with Watford after returning from his spell with Eastleigh, but did earn a step up a division to League Two side, Morecambe. The 2023/24 campaign was a productive one for McKiernan as he caught eyes higher up in the football pyramid, scoring seven goals in twenty eight games.
Predominantly a 10, McKiernan can also play as a holding midfielder, or an 8, if required and has done so during his time with Morecambe and Eastleigh. He’s much more comfortable in the number 10 though, which is where he’d likely operate in Michael Skubala’s side. We’re unsure what MS will do this season, but if we stick with the 3-5-2, then we’ll see McKiernan play the role that Ted Bishop and Danny Mandroiu were used in throughout the second half of the campaign but if Skubala goes with a 4 at the back, we will see him further up in a more traditional number 10 role.
He gives us lots of versatility, and an exciting midfield option. Alongside Tom Bayliss, Ethan Erhahon, Ethan Hamilton and Conor McGrandles, he gives us five great options in the middle of the park. Whatever combination you go for, it looks strong and that’s good going into a season that’ll be extremely competitive.
JJ said: “The way this club finished last season showed the direction it’s going in, the head coach likes to play attacking football with high energy which suits me.
“I’ll always give 100% and like to get on the ball and be creative. I can’t wait to get going. I know the fans here really get behind you so I’m really excited to play in front of them and for that whistle to blow on the first game of the season.”
City’s head coach Michael Skubala said: “JJ is a really exciting player and, as he says, perfectly fits the club. He buys into what we are trying to achieve and, most importantly, has a desire to work hard and develop.
“He has the technical and physical attributes we look for in his position, can create and score goals and I am really looking forward to working with him.”
Director of football Jez George added “The length of contract tells you everything about what we think of JJ.
“He has huge potential and hits the sweet spot for our recruitment in being ready to contribute immediately plus a really high ceiling. We are really excited to sign him. He is an infectious character, with a real drive and focus for what he wants to achieve in his career, so exactly the mentality we look for in young players.”
The Professional Football Compensation Committee have been asked to determine training compensation to be paid to Morecambe after the two clubs failed to reach agreement for the out-of-contract player.
