It is with both sadness and our best wishes that we farewell striker Danny Furlong, who has signed a two-year professional contract with Galway United in the League of Ireland.

Since joining us in 2016, Danny has excelled, scoring 12 goals in 22 appearances. On top of his performances on the field, Danny has also had an excellent impact on local footballers across the federation by passing on his experience to youngsters through school and holiday development programmes.

Coach Paul O’Reilly is gutted to lose the popular striker, but appreciates the opportunity of a significant professional contract for the 28 year old was simply too good for him to refuse.

“We wish Danny all the best on his move back to Ireland and Galway United”, said O’Reilly. “Galway United look to have a huge financial backing and have made a number of significant signings in the League of Ireland off-season.”

“Danny’s been a big player for us over the past two seasons, he’s had a really positive goal scoring record and he departs on good terms with everyone at the club."

“Its frustrating but as I’ve said there is no ill feeling towards the player at all, its the reality for Southern United at present that when players perform well they tend to get attractive offers. In this case it’s a really significant offer and an opportunity that we can’t stand in the way of for the player”.

Danny has thoroughly enjoyed his time in Dunedin, and is clearly leaving with plenty of great memories.

“It’s been a massive decision to make and one I haven’t taken lightly", said Danny, "but at this stage of my football career an opportunity like this probably won’t come again. Being so far from family and friends has been challenging at times so the combination of an offer being presented that I never expected and wanting to be closer to my family, I’ve decided to return home to Ireland.”

“I’ve loved my time at Southern United – the support and atmosphere at the club has been brilliant, and I’ve found it to be an extremely professional set-up and the gaffer, support staff, and players work extremely hard."

"In my time here we’ve had great access to world class physio support, squad Strength & Conditioning sessions at the HPSNZ centre, access to gym memberships, team and individual performance analysis, nutrition support and in general there’s been lots of positive interaction with the wider football community.”

“I’ve met a lot of good football people in Dunedin and around the Football South region and I’ve been lucky enough to work with some of the up and coming local youngsters as well. I’ll be looking out for the results from afar and I really hope the club can continue to make progress."

"I think anybody who has watched or played against us this season will know the progress we’ve made. Thank you for everything and best wishes to all within the Southern United football family.”

Local fans will long remember his goalscoring prowess as well as his excellent work rate and determination on the field. Highlights include his goal in our season opening draw with Auckland City, and of course his stoppage-time brace to defeat Waitakere United in Auckland. From everyone at Southern United, all the best and safe travels Danny.