Stanley have completed the signing of Dara Costelloe on a season-long loan from Burnley.

The 21-year-old attacker spent last season on loan in the Scottish Premiership, initially at St Johnstone before heading to Dundee.

He also had a stint at Bradford in 2022/23 and now heads to the Wham Stadium ahead of the new League Two season.

"It's one we have been after for quite a while, it's a bit of a marquee signing or, as I like to call them, game changers," manager John Doolan told the club site.

"Dara can win a game by himself. He is a top footballer, he sees patterns of play, he sees movements, he has a range of passing, and he has got goals in him.

"I am really pleased to have Dara here. Me and Ged (Brannan) have done a lot of work on that, and we have had great help from Burnley. He has had a couple of clubs to choose from, not just in our league, but higher up and in another country as well, and he has chosen us. We are delighted to get it over the line.

"The lads know the squad will grow. I said we would like two in each position, and ones that are quality and push each other.

"It's a long season, the squad is building, we have a really  good squad. We probably have a bit more space, but the attacking options we have are very, very good. If one is doing well, they will keep the shirt.

"It's Saturday-Tuesday games, Bristol Street Motors Trophy games and more, so we will need everyone in the squad to contribute."

Costelloe has featured in the Championship for Burnley and also represented Ireland at Under-21 level.

"I am happy to be here and I can't wait to get started. I am hoping to do as well as I can for the team and hopefully push for promotion," he added.

"I am ready for the next step in my career to push on and try and get regular games.

"It was a different experience playing in Scotland, and I enjoyed it and developed up there, learning a different side of the game, and now I am looking forward to the next challenge.

"I am looking to develop, try and get as much as I can out of the season by helping the team and getting some goals and assists. I love the pressure, I love it when the fans are giving me a bit!

"I had a word with Woodsy (Ben Woods) before I came here and he told me how good it is and how all the lads are great lads. It is a positive knowing somebody."