IT Sligo sports scholar Lauren McLellan has signed for Sligo Rovers ahead of the new Women’s National League season.

The 20-year-old, who hails from Manulla in Mayo, plays as a centre forward or striker, but has previously played as a goalkeeper.

McLellan played in the first Sligo Rovers WU17 team.

At that stage, she was a goalkeeper and later realised she preferred to play outfield, scoring goals.

McLellan started playing football with Manulla, before moving onto Castlebar Celtic where she enjoyed a lot of success.

She then signed for Rovers’ u17 side, and later spent two years with Kiltimagh Knock United and then moved back to Manulla where she was part of the side that won the Mayo League for the third year in a row.

She plays with IT Sligo, where she is in her second year of a sports scholarship.

She said: “I got a call from Steve (Feeney) asking me to attend training, he had said my college gaffer Emma Hansberry had put forward my name.

“I have loved training so far, getting back into the intense football I loved growing up. 

“Steve makes the training tough, intense and fun, he is an excellent manager to work with.” 

McLellan believes playing against players of a high standard this season will be a valuable experience.

“I am buzzing to be part of Rovers’ first WNL side, I am excited for the season to begin, playing with rovers and against internationals and tough opponents it will be a great experience.”