‘This is a massive club,’ says Irish U21 star.
Irish Under-21 international midfielder Connor Dimaio says he had no hesitation in signing for a National League North club – because he sees Stockport County as a springboard back to the Football League.
This is the first time the talented young midfielder has set foot outside of the League, having previously played for Sheffield United and Chesterfield.
Connor said: “My agent advised me to come down and meet Jim and once I did that and I’d looked around the place I knew I wanted to play here, it’s a massive club with real ambition. The manager has a track record of improving young players and getting them into the League, and that’s where I see myself playing, hopefully with Stockport County.”
The 22-year-old came through the Sheffield United Academy to break into the Blades’ first team at the age of 18 and won their Young Player of the Year award. He signed for the Spireites in February 2016 and went on to make 44 appearances for Chesterfield in Leagues One and Two.
He’s now signed a two-year deal with the Hatters, having taken time out to consider the offers on the table, but also has his eyes set on international glory. The Irish Under-21 side currently sit top of their European Championship qualifying group and Connor is hungry for more success with his country. He said: “The next qualifier is in September away to Kosovo followed by a home clash with Germany four days later and I’m expecting to be involved in that squad. We recently beat Iceland 3-1 in a friendly so we’re in good shape.”
Connor, who runs his own coaching business, says he can’t wait to impress the County fans next season. He said: “They’ll get to see a hard-working midfield player who likes to control the game, get on the ball, get others involved and doesn’t waste passes. I can’t wait to get started.
“Jim has got a really good squad with top experience and he’s making some great additions, so I’m expecting us to be challenging at the top end next season, that’s certainly the target.”
After a holiday in Barbados, Connor will be returning to the UK in time for pre-season training and to begin his journey back to the Football League.
