Gary Boylan has described the chance to work under John Russell as a key factor in his decision to return to Sligo Rovers.
The Bit O’ Red academy graduate is back at The Showgrounds after spells with Cork City, Galway United and Finn Harps.
He has signed on an initial one-year deal, saying: “I am delighted to be back at Sligo Rovers again.
“I enjoyed every minute in my last spell at the club and I know what it means to the supporters.
“With John Russell being in charge, that played a massive factor for me.
“You look at how well he’s done with the club in such a short spell and having played with John, I know how professional he is and the standards he demands.
“I am really looking forward to the season ahead and hopefully getting the club back into the European places again.”
Boylan joined Sligo Rovers from Mayo side Erris United in 2013 and made his senior debut against Derry City just over a year later.
After more than 100 appearances for the club, he moved to Cork City in 2019 and later joined Galway United, before spending the second half of last season on-loan at Harps.
Sligo boss Russell said: “I’m delighted Gary has agreed to sign with us for 2023.
“He knows the club well having come through the academy and he brings a wealth of experience from his time playing in this League.
“Gary is a very driven individual and has the ability to play in a number of positions.
“I always felt his best position was full back and that’s where I see him playing and developing with us this season.
“He is two footed, aggressive in the way he defends, and has the ability to get forward and put dangerous crosses into the box.
“It’s important to have the right type of people coming into the club and for that reason I think Gary is an excellent addition to the squad.
“All the staff and I are looking forward to working with him.”
