Stoke City defender Lewis Macari has joined us on loan until January.
The 21-year-old arrives at Meadow Lane having been a key figure for Dundalk in their 2022 League of Ireland season, which culminated in their qualification for the Europa Conference League.
Following the conclusion of the Irish season in November he returned to Stoke’s first-team group, travelling with them to an overseas training camp during the World Cup break, making his senior debut in the Emirates FA Cup and being named on the bench for three of the Potters’ remaining Sky Bet Championship matches.
His involvement continued into this summer, with him being named in Stoke’s starting XI for their pre-season victory at Meadow Lane.
Regarded by Potters boss Alex Neil as dependable, hard-working and having an excellent attitude, and having endeared himself to Dundalk supporters over the course of his excellent loan spell, Macari will now be hoping to prove his qualities in the EFL.
A statement from our board of directors reads: “After losing Geraldo Bajrami we felt it was important to strengthen defensively, so we’re delighted to have secured Lewis’ services.
“Although he spent most of his time at Dundalk as a full-back, he is more than comfortable at centre-back and possesses all the attributes we look for in someone who can play on the right of a back three.
“As well as being defensively sound, Lewis is energetic and an excellent crosser of the ball. We feel he can make positive contributions in attacking phases, as well as defensive.
“With Kyle Cameron, Aden Baldwin, Richard Brindley, Connell Rawlinson and Ollie Tipton already in place, as well as Adam Chicksen who has proven himself more than capable in central positions, we’re confident that we’re now well covered in defence, as well as all other areas of the squad.
“We wish Luke and the players well for what promises to be an exciting match against Accrington Stanley on Saturday.”
