Striker agrees new two-year deal
David Connolly has signed a new two-year deal with the Blues.
The 35-year-old striker scored seven goals in 17 appearances last season after arriving at Fratton Park on New Year’s Eve.
He made his debut at Swindon the following day and netted four times in three games over February and March.
Connolly said: “This is a cracking club – I said that when I joined. There are a lot of good people here, I was made to feel very welcome and the fans took to me.
“I enjoyed my football last season and this is now a new era for the club – I’m happy to be a part of that. I’ve met the chief executive and he was very passionate about taking the club forward.
“There are a lot of new players, so I’m sure there will be a transitional period.
“But it’s pleasing that Patrick Agyemang has signed and Tom Craddock’s also arrived, so there will be some competition for places. It looks like we’ve got the nucleus of a good side.
“The fans were amazing last season – especially in that home game against Sheffield United. Hopefully there will be more moments like that next season.”
Blues boss Guy Whittingham said: “It’s a great deal for us. David’s a dedicated professional footballer and a good influence for our younger players – on and off the pitch.
“Coaching is something he’s interested in and it’s fantastic if he can help with that, but first and foremost he’s come back here to play.”
Connolly started his career at Watford before spending time with Dutch outfit Feyenoord.
He then had a prolific two-year spell with Wimbledon, going on to play for West Ham, Leicester, Wigan, Sunderland and Southampton.
The Republic of Ireland international won 41 caps for his country and played at the 2002 World Cup.