By:
Mark Hendry
Kevin dos Santos has explained he swapped Canada for League of Ireland to showcase his attacking skills.
The Portuguese winger made the switch to join Derry City earlier in the transfer window.
It was perhaps an unexpected move for the 26-year-old who had been playing his football for Atlético Ottawa in the Canadian Premier League.
But it is a deal the Candystripes are excited to get over the line to see what their new man can do.
Dos Santos himself is intrigued at what his fresh challenge might bring in Republic of Ireland.
And he admitted after penning his two year contract that he did not know much about the division.
That’s set to change when the new campaign begins, though.
Kevin dos Santos wants Derry City move to showcase his talents
Dos Santos has joined up with his teammates in their Spanish pre-season camp.
Which is where the club caught up with him to learn a bit more about his talents and skills.
“I didn’t know an awful lot about the League of Ireland before I signed,” he said.
“But I’ve seen straight away with the quality in our squad that it’s a high standard.
“My game is about positive, attacking play and using my pace to get at defenders.
“I can’t wait for the season to start and to play in front of our big support.”
It is believed Dos Santos feels he can help Derry compete for silverware this coming term.
Shamrock Rovers are the title holders but he wants to be there fighting for the trophy this year.
The playmaker joins after Sadou Diallo left for Bohemians but he arrives with a new pal on the flank.
Experienced attacker James McClean joined Derry City recently and will offer a challenge for the spot.
Dos Santos’ main spot is also on the left-hand side but he is equally adept on the right.
Dos Santos’ career to date before Derry switch
Derry’s statement confirming their new player talked through his former clubs and career to date.
“Derry City FC can confirm that Portuguese winger, Kevin dos Santos has joined the club on a two-year deal from Atletico Ottawa,” it read.
“The 26-year old travelled to Spain with the City squad last week.
“He has impressed with his pace and attacking style of play.
“In Portugal, Dos Santos was in the academies of of U.D. Vilafranquense and Vitória de Setúbal.
“Before a couple of seasons in the UK, initially with Tadcaster Albion where his display in an FA Cup tie against Darlington impressed the opposition so much that they signed him.
“In 2022 he made the switch to the Canadian Premier League, signing for York United.
“Before his move to Ottawa where they were crowned champions after winning the end-of-season play-offs.”
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