Michael O'Connor was a influential midfielder for the Alex during his time here, ending a long association with the club in 2009.
'Occy' as he was known, signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2005 after just one season on the scholarship scheme. Belfast born, Michael was spotted playing in his native Northern Ireland and signed his scholarship as soon as he was allowed following his 16th birthday. He was also a key member of the Alex's youth side that reached the semi-finals of the FA Youth Cup in 2004.
O'Connor represented Northern Ireland at all youth levels during his time here can captained their under 18's side in the UEFA European under 18's Championships in France in 2004. Four years later he was capped for the first time for the full international side.
A tough tackling midfielder, who also has a keen eye for goal, continued to progress, and in the summer of 2009 caught the eye of Scunthorpe United to make his mark in the Championship.
In his first season at Glanford Park, Michael lived up to his footballing reputation, making his debut as a late substitute in the opening game of the season and scored his first goal in September at Selhurst Park in a 4-0 win over Crystal Palace. In the 2010/11 season O'Connor would net 9 times in 37 appearances as Scunthorpe fought in vein to preserve their Championship status.
