New Mansfield Town signing Corey O’Keeffe can’t wait to get started

The 22-year-old, who played at wing-back for Macclesfield Town last season, has penned a two-year contract at One Call Stadium.

And O’Keeffe, who has 19 caps for Republic of Ireland at under 17, 18 and 19 levels, says he can’t wait to get down to business.

“I’m delighted to be here and can't wait to get started.” he said.

“It's a great opportunity and I can't wait to get started.

“There was an option to come here in January and it didn't happen, so when it came up this time I said yes straight away.

“I know what the manager wants from me and I'm ready to pay that back. I’m feeling sharp and ready to go.

“I just want to get as many games under my belt as possible personally and to get promoted as a team.

“It is going to be tough next season, you get five per cent extra from the crowd but we will have to work through it.

“The crowd can be the big difference when they get behind you and roar you on.

“On the flip side will just go and play free, so there are two ways of looking at it and we will see when we get out there.

O’Keefe has been keeping himself in shape during the off-season and says he is looking forward to working hard with his new team-mates.

“It's been different for us all the last few months and frustrating,” he added.

“I've been trying to just keep fit and have been following my own programme, but it has not been easy.

“I feel fit and ready to go. The boss says everyone is looking fit and working hard, I'm ready to work hard.

"I like to get up and down and put crosses in and defend.

“My strengths are getting forward and creating attacks and one v one defending. I need to work on getting more shots in.”

Manager Graham Coughlan told www.mansfieldtown.net that his new man’s versatility would be vital.

He said: “Corey has a bright future ahead of him. He had a really good season on loan at Macclesfield last season.

"He has a wise head on young shoulders and offers us great energy, enthusiasm and can cover a number of positions.”