Waterford FC are delighted to announce the signing of defender Hayden Cann ahead of the 2026 SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division campaign.
The 22 year-old makes the move to the RSC having spent the last 12 months with Derry City FC, making 26 appearances for the Candystripes across all competitions in 2025 for Tiernan Lynch’s men.
Cann joined Lincoln City FC at 8 years of age, coming up through the ranks of The Imps’ academy before making his debut aged just 17 in an EFL Trophy clash against Mansfield Town in 2020 before signing his first professional contract with the club the following day.
The central-defender spent time on loan with clubs in the English National League before joining Drogheda United on loan for the first-half of the 2024 League of Ireland season. Here, the commanding centre-back proved a vital part of Kevin Doherty’s backline, as he made 19 appearances for the Drogs & netting one goal – a 94th minute winner against Dundalk in the Louth Derby at Weavers Park in May over 2024.
Just two months later in July, Cann made the move to Dundalk for the second-half of the 2024 Premier Division season, where he worked under the guidance of Jon Daly at the Lilywhites. Despite Dundalk falling to relegation that season, Cann’s impressive performances earned him a contract with Derry City for the 2025 campaign, where he spent the last 12 months of his career as he now becomes a Blue ahead of 2026.
Hayden spoke to our club media, outlining his excitement to work under Jon Daly once again at the Blues, saying:
“I’m buzzing to be signing for the club. I’m looking forward to working with Jon again after working with him previously & getting to know the lads. I know how tough a place the RSC is to come and get points, so I’m looking forward to playing here and meeting all the fans next season.”
Blues Head Coach Jon Daly also expressed his keenness to work with Cann once more, commenting:
“I’m delighted to bring Hayden to Waterford. He’s a young defender with tremendous potential, real composure on the ball, and the hunger to keep improving. Hayden fits the type of character and quality we want at the club, and I’ve no doubt he’ll make a big impact for us this season.”
Hayden Cann’s Player Sponorship is now available for 2026. To find out more, you can contact Waterford FC’s Commercial Manager Tony Kelly at tony.kelly@waterfordfc.ie.
Welcome to the Blues, Hayden!
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