Report by John Edwards

Picture by Jonathan Moore

Ollie Byrne is heading out on loan after accepting the opportunity to join Cork City in the League of Ireland Premier Division for the next three months in a move that is subject to international clearance.

Agreement has been reached between the clubs for the Altrincham keeper to bolster second-from-bottom Cork's bid to climb the table, and he has now crossed the Irish Sea to link up with his new team-mates.

Depending on international clearance coming through in time, he could be in line for an early debut, with the Rebel Army, as Cork are known, facing Shelbourne at Turners Cross tomorrow (Friday) evening.

If it doesn't, his first appearance between the sticks for his new side could be the ultimate test in terms of League of Ireland Premier Division football, as Cork travel to leaders Shamrock Rovers the following Friday.

It promises to be an ideal challenge for Ollie, who joined Alty from Welsh League side Connah's Quay last summer as replacement for Tony Thompson but whose place has come under threat following the arrival of Stockport County keeper Ethan Ross on a season-long loan.

It was felt it would be in Ollie's best interests to get minutes under his belt at a competitive level, and it is hoped he will have benefitted from the experience of an extended spell in the League of Ireland Premier Division when he returns to Alty at the end of their season in November.

Everyone at The J.Davidson Stadium wishes you well in Ireland, Ollie, and looks forward to welcoming you back in just over three months' time.