Barry Ryan has joined struggling Premier Division side Dublin City. The former UCD and Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper has been snapped up by City manager John Gill.

Ryan was suspended last September for failing a drugs test. The suspension, initially 15 months, was reduced to nine months by an Independent Appeals Board.

Ryan, a native of Ennis in Co Clare, made his league debut during the 1996/97 season with UCD before moving to Rovers.

Gill expressed optimism that Ryan could make a positive contribution to his side's fight to avoid relegation.

"Mentally, he's a lot tougher and needs to be given a chance. I've made a lot of mistakes in my life and got the benefit of the doubt.

"Barry is not phased by our position in the league and feels he can contribute immensely."