"I'm Looking Forward To Getting Out There!" - Grivosti

Following the completion of his move to Oriel Park on transfer deadline day, new Dundalk FC signing Tom Grivosti has wasted little time settling into life with the Lilywhites.

The 27-year-old defender, who joins from St Patrick's Athletic on a multi-year deal, was put straight through his paces after linking up with his new teammates for the first time and admits he is already feeling at home.

"It went really well," said Grivosti after his first training session. "I've really enjoyed it. It's obviously been a mad few days, but I was delighted to come in. I was really excited and the lads have been brilliant, as have the staff. I'm excited to get going."

The move came together quickly after Dundalk made their interest known earlier this week. Having spoken with manager Ciarán Kilduff, Grivosti was immediately convinced that Oriel Park was the right place for the next chapter of his career.

"I got told on Monday morning that Dundalk were interested in signing me and from there it was up to me," he explained. "I spoke to the manager that afternoon and I really liked what he had to say, what he's got going on with the club and the ambitions here. As soon as I spoke to him, I wanted to join and I'm delighted we managed to get it done."

Having faced Dundalk three times already this season while at St Patrick's Athletic, Grivosti has had a close-up view of the progress made by Kilduff's side and admits he has been impressed by what he has seen.

"I've been really impressed," he said. "Coming up from the First Division, maybe people didn't expect Dundalk to do as well as they have this season, but they've been one of the best teams to watch in the league. The intensity, the pressing and the way they play has stood out. I've been really impressed and I can't wait to be involved in it."

With more than 160 senior appearances across Scotland, England and Ireland, Grivosti arrives with a wealth of experience. After helping Ross County win the Scottish Championship and Scottish Challenge Cup, and lifting the FAI Cup with St Patrick's Athletic in 2023, he believes his knowledge of the League of Ireland can be an asset to Dundalk's dressing room.

"I've played a lot of games over the last five years and I think I can bring that experience," he said. "I know the league well, I know the players and I understand what it's about. I like to play football and be comfortable on the ball, so hopefully I can bring that to the team as well."

As Dundalk continue their push up the Premier Division table, Grivosti's immediate focus is on helping his new club maintain momentum and challenge for a European place.

"The aim now is to settle into the group, make a good impact and help the team keep moving forward," he said. "We're within touching distance of the European places and hopefully we can catch the teams ahead of us and get into Europe."

The defender could make his first appearance in Dundalk colours as soon as Friday night's clash with Sligo Rovers at Oriel Park, a prospect he is eagerly anticipating. "I'm really looking forward to it," he said. "I know what it's like playing here as an opposition player. The fans are passionate and they create a great atmosphere, so it'll be nice to be on the receiving end of that support for a change. I'm looking forward to getting out there."