James Talbot is relieved to end his ‘toughest year’ on a high after signing a multi-year contract extension with Bohemians.
The Gypsies goalkeeper hasn’t played since getting injured on Ireland duty in June and was a frustrated onlooker as Bohs’ season crashed and burned.
But close to full fitness again, the 25-year-old has vowed to come back with a bang in the New Year and has set European qualification as a target in 2023.
Fourth choice for Ireland when fit, behind Gavin Bazunu, Caoimhin Kelleher and Mark Travers, Talbot suffered a season-ending shoulder injury while on Nations League duty.
“I don’t think I’ve had a year as tough as this, so my focus is getting the best out of myself when I come back next season,” he said.
“I want to get that consistency that I had previously. I’m near-enough back fit so it is unfortunate that’s coinciding with the season ending.
“I’ve never had a significant injury and at first I didn’t know how bad it was and didn’t know how long I would be sidelined, so that was tough to take.”
Bohs form on the pitch didn’t help his mood but with new boss Declan Devine in place, the Gypsies will be looking to bounce back next year.
And Talbot insists they should not cap their ambition as he wants to secure a European spot for 2024.
“It’s my first year at the club where we haven’t had something to play for at the end of the season.
“Whether that’s trying to qualify for Europe through the league or getting to a cup final, I want us to get back to that next year.
“It has been a struggle for the club this season.”
Talbot was considering going travelling but added: “I’m over the moon to re-sign. This club has provided me with countless opportunities which I’m thankful for.
“I had considered travelling assisted by football and that is something I might do in the future.
“But the club going properly full-time next season is an exciting time to be involved and made me want to be a part of it.”
New Bohs boss Devine had made it a priority to nail down Talbot on a new deal ahead of next season.
Devine said: “James is the best goalkeeper in Ireland and he has been a huge loss to the team this year through injury.
“When you’re a manager coming to a new club, you want to keep your best players.
“My first two signings for next season - Keith Buckley and James - are two Bohs stalwarts; people who I believe can drive us on to success.”
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