Bell was born in Buncrana and was spotted by Rushden & Diamonds playing for an Ulster schools select in the Inter-Provincial tournament. Bell is a left-back but can also play left-midfield. He won two Republic of Ireland under-19 caps under Sean McCaffrey in 2003. Spent the last two years with St. Patrick's Athletic. Made 15 appearances for the Saints last season. Has played at both left-back and left-midfield this season.