RICHIE WELLENS is hoping to get the best out of Aaron Connolly after landing him at the second time of asking.
Connolly has agreed a two-year deal with League One side Leyton Orient after stints with Sunderland and Millwall last season.
And Orient boss Wellens is relishing the chance to work with the former Brighton striker.
Wellens said: “I tried to sign Aaron when I was at Swindon a few years ago, but he then scored a hat-trick against MK Dons in the EFL Trophy. Everyone was in for him after that.
“He’s talented, quick, good on the ball and skilful. He’s got an eye for goal, and he scored twice on his Premier League debut for Brighton.
“The ability is all there, and when I met him recently I got a really good vibe off him. I sense that there is a burning desire for him to do well.
“If we can get Aaron firing, I have absolutely no doubt in his abilities.”
Aged 19, Connolly made his first Premier League start in October 2019, scoring twice against Tottenham, with his Ireland bow coming a week later.
But he has been capped just once since September 2021 as he struggled in his club career with Brighton sending him on loan to Middlesbrough, Venezia and Hull City before he then joined the Tigers permanently.
Last October – a couple of weeks after joining Sunderland – he spoke openly about how an alcohol addiction had hindered his progress.
He struggled for game-time at the Black Cats and injuries hampered his time at Millwall with the Galway man keen to make a fresh start.
Connolly said: “I’m buzzing to be here. I met with the gaffer last Monday, and straight away we both wanted to get it done.
“I’m delighted to be here, and the gaffer was a main factor in me coming here.
“I know the club just missed out on promotion last year, but we’re hoping to go one better this year.”
