Limerick's Clyde O'Connell loving life after move to Thailand

ONE OF LIMERICK'S footballing exports has settled down to life in a new league with consummate ease. Clyde O'Connell scored on his debut for Thai League D2 side Chainat Hornbill and hasn't looked back.

The former Treaty United, Limerick FC, Regional Utd and Fairview defender said that it was easy to hit the ground running with his new club given the welcome he received after signing.

"Settling in has been quite easy because the Thai people in general are very kind and generous. The players and staff helped me massively.

"Scoring on my debut was very special. It was a big game too because we played the best team away from home and it was the first point the club have got against this team.

"Winning Player of the Month was a great confidence boost but I’m just happy that I am contributing and doing my job for the team."

Chainat are one of the smaller teams in Thai football and have been seen in the last few years as a feeder club for the bigger teams in the region.

Despite the small nature of the club, O'Connell explains that the fans are very passionate and are very respectful when they come into contact with the players.

"Fans have been amazing to be honest. Chainat would be a small place so when you are outside doing your shopping or going for food you would cross paths with them. They are very supportive and kindly ask for photos with them and the kids.

"Thai football is less direct than back at home and less physical as you can imagine but it’s physical in a different way. For example the tole it takes on your body with the heat. Recovery is very important. Thailand is the highest standard I’ve played in Asia so far, 100%."

Chainat currently sit in 11th position in the Thai League D2 table and O'Connell believes that a strong finish to the season could see them reach the play-off spots at the end of the season.

"We need to take it game by game but now with our current performances we can see the last play offs spot on the horizon and that is what we have to aim for.

"Whether we get there or not, who knows but we have that mindset. Other then that my personal goal is just to stay fit, healthy and keep helping the team for the rest of the season."