Former Bidvest Wits and Maritzburg United goalkeeper Jethren Barr has signed for Irish club Drogheda United.
It will be the 28-year-old’s second spell in the British Isles, having previously played for Northern Irish club Portadown.
He represented South Africa last year at the Cosafa Cup, making three appearances under caretaker coach Morena Ramoreboli.
Barr is set to compete with the experienced Andy Wogan for the goalkeeper spot at the League of Ireland Premier Division side.
“I’ve been playing in Northern Ireland, but I know how tough the league is here. Drogheda came in for me, and I’m really excited to get going,” Barr told the club’s media department.
“I made my debut in the South African league when I was seventeen. The league in South Africa is different compared to here. Playing with Portadown, I think I’ve adjusted to the differences in the climate and weather as well. I’ve been patient, waiting until January to get a move and I’m really buzzing to be here at Drogheda now.
“I played my first senior international games for South Africa this year which was a dream come true for me. I was grateful the people back home took notice of how I was playing in Northern Ireland and gave me a chance. I think I did well, we didn’t lose any of the three games, so hopefully there are eyes back on me and I can kick on now.
“I want to play as many games as possible. Andrew has done really well, we’ve seen it from up North, he’s put in some great performances. Being the older goalkeeper in the team, I can always guide him and offer advice but I also want to push him for his spot, because I am here to compete for my place in the team.”
