Ethan Boyle signs for Shamrock Rovers

Former Finn Harps man and Ireland Under 21 International Ethan Boyle has joined Shamrock Rovers on a one-year deal after playing a pivotal role in Ollie Horgan’s side during their battling display in attempting to stave off the drop which ultimately ended in disappointment.

 

Speaking on his decision to make the move from Donegal to Dublin, Boyle said that it was an easy decision to make, especially given the big-club status of Shamrock Rovers.

 

"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.”

 

Speaking on his preferred position, Boyle explained that he is a versatile player who can put in a shift as a midfielder, centre-back or as a right-back.

 

“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.”

 



After having a trial at Tallaght Stadium back in 2016, Boyle knew that despite not receiving a contract from the Hoops, he would get to experience the reality of full-time football if he were to keep plugging away in his efforts.

 

“I thought I did quite well. I wasn't too worried that I didn't sign back then, I knew if I kept working hard and doing what I was doing I would get full-time football somewhere and I'm quite happy that it's at Shamrock Rovers now.

 

“I think I've come on a lot. I've spent two years in the Premier Division, that's a lot of experience for me. I really enjoyed it at Finn Harps. I made a lot of friends there and a lot of personal goals came through for me. Certain aspects of my game have been improved and still need to be improved and I'm sure that'll happen here."

 



Also having his say on the deal was Rovers boss Stephen Bradley who is more than happy to be able to welcome a player of his calibre into his Shamrock Rovers squad, saying; 

 

"I've liked Ethan for a long time. 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.”

 

Bradley also added that he is looking forward to being able to work alongside a player of Boyle’s ability with the player having experience as an Irish underage international.

 

“He's a good age, he's an Irish under 21 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 3 or 4 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.”