Noo' time like the present

STEPHEN BRADLEY didn't sugar-coat the conversation so Conan Noonan knew it was time to take a leap of faith.

- BY PAUL O'HEHIR

Waterford's loan star (inset) made 24 appearances for Shamrock Rovers last season with 19 of those were in the league.

But the opportunities dried up in the second half of the season, such is the nature of the Hoops' rotation and strength in depth.

And once Matt Healy was lined up as a new midfield signing over the winter, Bradley felt it best that Noonan spread his wings and get regular minutes elsewhere.

The 22-year-old was quickly snapped up on loan by Waterford and has been a permanent fixture this season.

"I sat down with Stephen in January and we had a really honest conversation," Noonan told Star Sport ahead of the Blues' clash with Sligo Rovers tonight. "Nobody is really considered a starter at Rovers as they rotate so much but I felt ready to play a big part.