Former Wigan Athletic man secures League Two contract

Former Wigan Athletic midfielder Ronan Darcy has signed a short-term with League Two outfit Accrington Stanley following a successful trial period.

The 26-year-old, who joined Latics from Crawley Town in January 2025, had been without a club after departing the Brick by mutual consent at the start of this season.

"Ronan is a very good player," said Accrington boss John Doolan, who played for Latics between 1992 and 1996.

"We have liked what we have seen, we have a few injuries, and we are thankful that the board has backed us on getting him in.

"He has already added to the quality in training, he has shown us a lot already, so it's now up to him to do it on the pitch.

"He has been in the building a while, he knows how it works, he has been involved in shapes, he knows the players, and it should be seamless.

"He has a lot to offer, he has experience of the league, and has fitted in well."

While Darcy's departure from Wigan was only announced on September 7, the agreement had been signed shortly before the transfer deadline the week before.

This means that, as a free agent when the window closed, he was able to join Accrington and be available for selection.

Indeed, he made his debut off the bench during Saturday's home defeat to Wycombe Wanderers in the first round of the FA Cup.

"I have been on trial for a few weeks, it's been really good, and the lads have been unbelievable with me," said Darcy.

"It's a situation I have never been in before, being on trial and not having games at weekends, so to finally be back in that environment, I am eager to be back out there. It's a good feeling to sign a contract and I just want to kick on now.

"I have got a few promotions under my belt, I am attack-minded, and I will work hard.

"I am at my best when I am playing week in, week out."