Cork City have confirmed the signing of defensive duo George Heaven and Gordon Walker ahead of the new season. 

Heaven came through Leicester City's academy and represented the Foxes up to under-23 level before being released by the Premier League club in 2019.

“I think it is a very good move for me from a footballing point of view, because it sounds like a very good opportunity for me and I was very pleased to get it over the line," the 21-year-old told Cork City's website.

“I’ve heard a lot of good things about the club and, once it was clear that there was interest, I was very keen to join. I want to play my part in getting this club back to where it belongs.

"It’s all new to me, but I have already been on to a few of the lads and they have been very welcoming, so I am really looking forward to it.

"There are a lot of young players in the squad, but there is experience here as well, so it is a good balance.”

Cork boss Colin Healy is hoping that Heaven's signing will help them bounce straight back from the First Division.

“He’s a centre back and Liam Nelis of Major League Sports made us aware he was available, so we are very pleased to be bringing him in. He has experience, he’s a good player and we feel he will strengthen the team.

"It is a very good opportunity for him and one he was really keen to take, so we are looking forward to getting him into training with the lads.”

Walker meanwhile has moved back to Turner's Cross after a spell at UCC.

“I am delighted to be back with City," the 21-year-old said of his return. "I would have played with a lot of the lads here previously at underage level, the likes of Alec Byrne, David Harrington, Rob Slevin and a few more, so I am looking forward to lining up with them again.

"Training has been good, it is a young, hungry squad, and we are all working very hard every day.”