Galway United have continued to strengthen their squad in their build up to the opening match of the season against Jeff Kenna's St. Pats, with the signing of Michael McGrath, Declan Edwards, David Cooke, Garry Breen and Sean Kelly.

Michael McGrath (23) signs from Kidderminster Harriers on a one year contract. The talented midfielder who joined Kidderminster in early 2006 impressed last season making a total of 31 appearances. Following a two month loan spell with Worcester City he moves to Terryland in the search of first team football and is looking forward to the challenges ahead.

Irish Under 21 International Gary Breen signs from Hereford United. Breen (19), who has recently being capped for the Republic of Ireland U-21's, was a member of the Manchester City Youth team which reached the final of the FA Youth Cup in 2006.

The big center half impressed on trial with the Tribesmen scoring against UCD and is looking forward to the upcoming campaign.

Defender Seán Kelly has also joined the Tribesmen on loan from Cork City for the 2009 season. Kelly, a former player in the Arsenal youth academy, joined the Rebel Army in 2006 and has played at a variety of under-age levels for the Republic of Ireland.

Stockport County striker Declan Edwards has joined United on loan until July. The 19 Year old Irishman previously played in the Republic of Ireland U18 Schools Squad and is looking forward to getting on the score sheet early at Terryland Park.

Galway native David Cooke has also signed for the Tribesmen. The midfielder made regular appearances for United under then manager Tony Cousins before been released in late 2007. Manager Ian Foster believes the talented midfielder deserves a chance to prove himself under a new regime. "He's impressed in training and in the preseason friendlies so far; I believe he has the ability to succeed at this level.

Foster is delighted to have signed three talented young players and believes they have a great opportunity to develop over the coming season. "It's a great opportunity for them. It's a young squad and they're young lads who want to play first team football."

Meanwhile Irish Under 21 International Jay O'Shea has being named team captain of Galway United for the 2009 Season with John Russell taking on the role of vice-captain.