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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Paul O'Hehir

Ireland defender Derrick Williams joins LA Galaxy on two-year deal

Derrick Williams wants to become an LA Galaxy hero like Robbie Keane.

The Republic of Ireland international has tonight completed his move to the MLS giants on a two-year deal with the option of a third..

Ex-striker Keane, who starred for Galaxy between 2011 and 2016, recommended the defender to his former club.

And Williams - who was born in Germany to an American father and Irish mother - is keen to leave his mark.

“I’m really excited about the move and as soon as I heard they were interested, I wanted to make it happen,” said the former Blackburn Rovers defender.

“Robbie Keane spoke highly of the place and hopefully I can do as well as Robbie Keane did over here.”

Waterford man Williams, 28, continued: “I want to win trophies and when I think of American football, I think of LA Galaxy being one of the best teams.

“My family is from America and I’ve always wanted to come back here. I’m feeling very positive about it.”

LA Galaxy General Manager Dennis te Kloese said: “Derrick is an experienced defender who has played at a high level in England and internationally.

“We believe Derrick will strengthen our defence and add competition to the position.

“We’re excited to have Derrick join the squad and look forward to his contributions to the club.”

Williams has three Ireland caps and was in Stephen Kenny’s squad as recently as October

But he had to withdraw from the home clash with Wales for Covid-19 related reasons and was then injured for the November games.

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