Sean Roughan has completed a move to Huddersfield Town.
It’s been widely expected for a few weeks now, and perhaps there will be some disappointment that it’s for a club in our division, but in truth, it’s s obering reminder we are still a fairly small fish in a pond full of bigger predators. It’s reported that a transfer fee and financial package for Roughan have been agreed as City retained domestic compensation fee rights due to the player being under 24.
The 22-year-old joined City from Shelbourne as a scholar, having previously played at Swords Celtic and Phoenix in his schoolboy years, before signing his first professional contract in July 2020. After being given his debut at just 17 against Crewe Alexandra in the Carabao Cup, Roughan went on to make 11 appearances throughout the 2020/21 campaign, before enjoying a loan at Drogheda United.
The official press release states Roughan has now surpassed 150 appearances in red and white, although my maths have him on 149. This season, he played every minute of City’s league and FA Cup campaign, receiving an award as recognition from head coach Michael Skubala.
Director of football Jez George said: “Sean’s growth from boy to man, and from a youth team player to an established League One defender is great credit to him and all the staff within the Academy and first team who played such a role in his development, most notably Tom Shaw who has been there with Sean along the whole journey.
“Great credit should also go to the board who backed our judgment that this young man had huge potential back in 2019, enabling him to complete his Irish Leaving Certificate at Lincoln Minster School. This story also wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Mark Wallace, the headmaster of Lincoln Minster School, who found a way to deliver the curriculum with the help of numerous teachers, and Louise Costello, who tutored Sean in Gaelic. They all had a harder job than the football staff!
“We realised this moment would come and whilst we did everything we could to keep Sean, it has been obvious for some time that he would leave this summer. In these circumstances, we have negotiated a fair compensation package, which represents his value and the investment in Sean by the club over six years.
“To play every minute of every league game last season is testament to Sean’s ability, professionalism as well as his mental and physical strength. It also tells you everything about his character that he remained 100% focused and committed until the last minute of his last game. We wish him well and hope to see him playing higher than League One in the future. He will be a tough act to follow and hard to replace.”
Honestly, I’ve got the arse about this, but only because I really rated Roughan. I understand at times during his spell here he was the subject of a lot of stick from some supporters, wholly unwarranted, and if it were me, I would have left as well. it is a disappointment to ee him join another League One club, but like Regan Poole before him, Huddersfield looks like a better route to the Championship than the Imps. That said, Lasse Sorensen might have an opinion on that.
On his Instagram, Sean thanked everyone at the club for what he described as a club that will ‘always be a part’ of him.
“To the coaches, players, and backroom staff — I’ve made memories that will last a lifetime.
I just want to say a huge thank you Imps. I’m truly thankful to every coach, staff member, and teammate I’ve come across during my time at the club. I’ve met some incredible people and made friendships that will stay with me forever.
“From the academy to making my professional debut, I’ve grown so much — both on and off the pitch — and those lessons will stick with me for life. To the fans, thank you for your continued support. Wishing you nothing but success in the future. Lincoln City will always be a part of me”
It goes without saying we wish Sean all the best, and of all the players who have left the Bank for bigger clubs, he’s the first since Harry Toffolo that I feel genuinely has the ability to play much higher than the level he has moved to. Good luck Sean.
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