FOR THE second time this season Drogheda United's attempts to strengthen their squad have been hit by a medical condition affecting a prospective new player.

With manager Paul Doolin anxious to boost his side's defences ahead of the closing of the mid-season transfer window, the Drogheda manager made a move late last week for the Galway United defender Reggie Nooitmeer.

The former Dutch under-17 international had agreed terms with United pending a medical and was expected to sign in time to be included in the Drogheda squad for the match with Bray on Friday last.

It has emerged, however, that Nooitmeer's medical examination revealed a cardiac abnormality, causing the deal to collapse and leaving the 25-year-old's playing career in doubt.

Prior to the start of the season Drogheda acquired the services of the defender Seán Prunty from Longford but a subsequent medical revealed Prunty had a heart condition that forced him into premature retirement.