Dundalk midfield Richie Towell is looking forward to this third season at Oriel Park and is looking forward to the challenge of defending the SSE Airtricity League trophy.

The midfielder lined out 49 times for the champions last season and struck 15 goals as the club clinched the EA Sports Cup and the SSE Airtricity League title in what was a phenomenal season.

The 23 year-old, who joined Dundalk ahead of the 2013 season, will now remain at Oriel Park for the 2015 season in what is a major boost to Stephen Kenny and the club.

Speaking to dundalkfc.com about the season ahead for Dundalk, Towell expressed his happiness at the prospect of a third season at Oriel Park.

“I’m really delighted to be staying. Last year was amazing what we done. Winning the league and the (EA Sports) cup as well was brilliant to be part of. It was a no-brainer for me. If I was to sign back for a club in the league of Ireland it was only going to be one.

“I’m delighted to stay at Dundalk and it’s great to be back.”

The former Celtic starlet is looking forward to the new season and aims to make history in the new campaign.

“I think you can see with the players that Stephen (Kenny) has brought in and the guys that he has re-signed, there’s some great players here, we are looking good. We’re a stronger team than we were last year.

“The aim is to try and retain our title. We are all looking forward to trying to defend it and it is a huge challenge but that’s our aim. We want to have a go in everything and we have Europe to look forward to as well so hopefully we can get a good run there too.”

The 1-1 draw with Warrenpoint Town signalled the start of the pre-season matches for the club and while Towell missed out due to a knock he is raring to go and is intent on making his 2015 bow in the upcoming friendlies.

“I can’t wait to get playing now. I have a little knock at the moment but I am doing work behind the scenes. Doing a lot of running with Graham (Byrne) to get myself right. I’m hoping to get started soon. I just can’t wait to get going.”

“The place is amazing. The fans were great last year. As I said this was the only club that I was going to sign for if I stayed here. I really am pleased to sign back and just want to play now.”