Coventry City's latest signing Richard Keogh has spoken about his move from Carlisle to The Championship and is excited about the challenges he faces.
Keogh is well known in Cumbria, but less so in the Midlands, but he aims to change that with his performances of the pitch.
"I think the fans could relate to the way I play which is always giving 100 per cent." said the 23 year old right back. He continued, "I am a very committed player and like to get forward and get people on the edge of their seats."
Keogh started out his footballing career as a centre back, but moved to right back while playing at Carlisle. He explained, "I love playing centre back but I have found that right back really suits my game because I see a lot more of the ball and I can make a positive impact in games."
"I scored five goals last season, a few from set pieces and some from getting forward and that's something that I wanted to get into my game and something I would like to continue at Coventry."
Keogh was offered a new contract by Carlisle, but he wanted to move on and Coventry managed to persuade the player his future lay at The Ricoh Arena and signed the player on a free transfer. However, as the player is under 24 years old, his former club are entitled to compensation. Coventry City and Carlisle agreed an undisclosed sum for the promising defender.
When asked about the move to Coventry,Keogh said, "I feel this is the right move for me at this time of my career and development. I had interest from other clubs, although not too many others from the Championship, but as soon as I spoke to Aidy Boothroyd I knew it was the right move for me."
"His enthusiasm is infectious and he has got a lot of faith in me, and I am hungry to do well so this is a great chance for me and as soon as I had spoken to him there was only one place I wanted to be."
The signing of Keogh is the third Irish player to sign for the Sky Blues in as many days. Keogh's signing follows those of Stephen O'Halloran and Roy O'Donovan.
Boothroyd said of Keogh, "Richard is another hungry player who comes here looking to prove himself and that's exactly the type of character we want. He's 6' 1" tall, quick and strong, and good on the ball."
"He has represented Ireland Under 21s and was captain as well, and has played 75 games for Carlisle over the last two years, so he's got a good pedigree. I believe he will bring a different dimension to us because he can defend and get forward as well."