Racing Club show intent with swoop for Brakes legend

Herlihy, who was also attracting interest from Southern League Premier side Banbury, had the opportunity to play another season at the DCS Stadium.

However, a long association with O’Callaghan, plus the chance to reduce his travelling commitments, persuaded the 35-year-old to make the switch to the Midland Combination Premier side.

And O’Callaghan, who is still in the process of rebuilding Racers after the departure of the entire first-team squad along with former manager Lee Knight, says Herlihy’s capture sends out a clear message to other potential signings.

“I’ve known Stuart a long time and ever since I got the job at Racing Club I’ve been pestering him to come,” said O’Callaghan.

“He’s got great experience and he’s a major signing for us.

“It shows we’ve got a bit of intent and want to attract the best local players.”

For Herlihy, who made more than 250 appearances and featured in three championship-winning sides for Leamington, the move to Townsend Meadow represents a return to his roots.

However, the window fitter says he is not viewing the switch as a chance to take it easy in his veteran years.

“After Leamington, it’s the next local club and it would be nice to help get them back up the leagues,” he said.

“I’m still fit enough through my job and I’m the sort of person that if it got to the stage that I wasn’t able to give 100 per cent then I’d stop playing.”

Herlihy, who joined Brakes from Leamington Hibs, hopes his experience of playing at Southern League level will rub off on what is expected to be a youthful Racing Club Warwick side.

But while the combative midfielder admitted that might make him a target for opposition players, he says he now has more reason than ever to improve his disciplinary record.

“Every team needs players who have played at a higher level.

“And having played at this level with Leamington I know what to expect.

“But I’ll have to be careful with the reds and yellows.

“I’ve never had to pay fines before as the clubs have always paid them, but I’m sure that won’t be the case at Racing Club.”

n A goal from right-back Adam Creaney earned a new-look Racing Club side a 1-1 draw with Stratford Town on Tuesday night.

Creaney showed good composure to produce a neat finish seconds before half-time, with James Travis equalising with a header midway through the second period.

Racing Club entertain Redditch United tomorrow (3pm).