Former Republic of Ireland international has just signed for Drogheda United

You don't see many men who have scored for Ireland in the SSE Airtricity League.

Well newly promoted Drogheda United are preparing for their return to the top flight in some style by securing a deal for a former Republic of Ireland forward in the form of Stephen Elliott. Elliott, who represented the national team on nine occasions between 2004 and 2006, has put pen to paper on a move that will see him join Drogheda ahead of the new season. The 33-year-old is set to compete with Marc Griffin, Gareth McCaffrey and Thomas Byrne for a starting place in manager Pete Mahon's plans. “Stephen will add to our attacking options and although he has played in the Premier League and has represented his country, he has succeeded my expectations as a player,” Mahon said of the coup. “He still has the hunger to score goals and he was very impressed with what he has seen at the club to date. We are extremely happy with the squad we have assembled and the players have put a tremendous effort in and are looking forward to getting games under their belts.” Elliott began his career with Manchester City, making his debut against Fulham in 2004 but injury restricted him from flourishing there and he moved to Sunderland, where the Dubliner scored 16 times in 47 appearances during his debut season. His career then took him to Wolves, Preston, Norwich, Hearts, Coventry and Carlisle before he returned to Ireland via Shelbourne last year, where he made six appearances before leaving via mutual consent. But Elliott's Premier League and international experience will pay dividends for Drogheda as they aim to stay up at the first time of asking when the season gets underway.