Madden happy to re-sign

The talented right-back, who attracted interest from the likes of Shamrock Rovers, Limerick and St Patrick’s Athletic, believes the Brandywell is the place to be next season.

“Yeah after a few weeks of talking, I have decided to stay with Derry, thinking about getting the chance of playing European football, was one reason why I have re-signed,” admitted the Dubliner.

“Not many players can play in Europe, so it’s a great opportunity and something I’m looking forward too.”

The 24-year-old also confirmed that after having talks with boss Declan Devine last week, he believes the Candy Stripes are going in the right direction and he’s hoping he can pick up from where he left off this year.

“One of the first things I said to Decky (Devine) was about his plans for next season and what players he was trying to bring in and if he gets the players that he’s after then it will only strengthen our squad,” he added.

“I feel we have a good squad and if we can add a few new players then we can push on even more next season.

“Coming up last season was a new experience for me and yeah coming to a good team, that helped.

“I think the way I played suited the team and I have to say that I really loved playing for Derry last year

“It was a difficult decision, because I’m from Dublin and a few clubs from Dublin were talking to me, so that’s why it has taken me this time to decide to re-sign as I have to think about a few things, but I felt Derry are going in the right direction and with us playing European football next season and having just won the FAI Cup, it just felt right to sign again.

“Yes I had a lot of thinking to do but hopefully now I have made the right decision and I can’t wait to get started.”