SHAMROCK ROVERS HAVE today announced the latest addition to their squad for next season, while one former Rovers player has also found a new club.
Ethan Boyle has left relegated Finn Harps to join the Hoops, with Dave Webster signing for Waterford after his departure from Tallaght was confirmed earlier this month.
A versatile 20-year-old who can play in midfield and defence, Boyle spent two seasons with Harps and has also featured in the Republic of Ireland U21 squad in their ongoing qualifying campaign for the 2019 European Championships.
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley thinks highly of the Wexford native, who may end up replacing right-back Simon Madden, whose unexpected exit from the club was announced last week.
“I’ve liked Ethan for a long time,” Bradley said. “I think he brings a lot of qualities to us. He’s very athletic, powerful and he can use the ball. He’s very comfortable on the ball because he’s played midfield as well. He has a lot of really good attributes.
“He’s a good age, he’s an Irish U21 international so I think he’s a great fit for us. I believe we can help take Ethan’s game to the next level, make him into a top right-back, centre-back and midfielder. He can play in three or four positions. I’ve known him for a number of years and he’s impressed me every time I’ve seen him, whether it’s right-back or central midfield.
“We had him on trial a couple of years ago [under Pat Fenlon]. Back then I think we had too many players in those positions. Ethan has obviously gone off and played a lot of games in the league since then. When I spoke to him he just wanted to come and sign for us and get playing. He knows that he can be a big player for the club in the coming years. He’s really looking forward to it.”
Boyle said: “It didn’t take much persuasion. It’s a big club and the thought of playing for Shamrock Rovers is quite a big thing so I was more than happy to join. I’m very excited, I can’t wait to get to pre-season and hopefully get myself a starting position and hold it down.
“Stephen Bradley hasn’t specifically spoken to me about right-back but he’s said that a position in the back four may be more suited. I’ve no problem staying in a position for a year and completely honing in on that position and becoming the best player I can.
“I think I’m versatile, I can do a job in a lot of places. I’ve always said I like playing in midfield but I know there’s a lot of competition here. If they want me to play in midfield, right-back or centre-back I don’t mind.”
As for Webster, the 28-year-old central defender — who joined Shamrock Rovers ahead of the 2015 season — has signed a one-year deal with newly-promoted Waterford, who are back in the top flight for 2018 after winning the First Division title.
The Dubliner becomes Waterford’s third new signing for next season, following the news that striker Izzy Akinade and midfielder Bastien Hery are also bound for the RSC after being snapped up from Bohemians and Limerick respectively.
“People I have talked to over the last few weeks have spoken highly of the club, the fans and the set-up, so it is an excellent opportunity for me to be part of it all next season,” said Webster.
“After having a couple of chats with Pat Fenlon, it was clear the club has high ambitions, so I’m excited to be a part of those. The club had a very successful year last season and I’m hoping I can add and contribute to that success on the pitch and in the dressing room.”
