Sligo Rovers sign Chelsea goalkeeper Mitchell Beeney on loan

Sligo Rovers have announced the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Mitchell Beeney on a loan deal until the end of June.

 

Beeney, a highly-coveted prospect at Stamford Bridge during his early years, has fallen down the pecking order in West London during recent years.

 

He struggled during loan spells in both League One and League Two with the likes of both Newport County and Crawley Town.

 

Having played for the Blues with distinction through youth team levels, Beeney won FA Youth Cups and an under-21 Premier League title.

 

The 22-year-old is now looking forward to kickstart his fledgling career at the Showgrounds and provide some much-needed healthy competition to the current Bit o’ Red custodian Micheál Schlingermann.

 



After speaking with the club’s official media team, the England native is relishing the prospect of rubbing shoulders with Schlingermann to tussle for a spot in the first team come the weekend.

 

“It has been really nice getting to know all the players here,” Beeney told the club's official website.

 

“They are a great group and I’m really happy to become part of it. I enjoyed the friendly match and it gave me an insight into the club.

 



“I’m here to play senior competitive games – that’s what these moves are about. I don’t know a huge amount about the league, only what the manager and staff have told me.

 

“I have competition in Michael who has had the shirt but it’s all about that if you want to be successful. I’m keen to get in the team and play as many games as I can here.”

 

Manager Gerard Lyttle added: “Mitchell came over for a few days for the Cabinteely friendly to get a feel of the place and see if he liked it.

 

“I think he really took to Sligo, the players, the people around the club and the chance to show what he can do here.

 

“He is probably approaching a crossroads in his career and this move allows him the opportunity to build on his ability and showcase it.

 

“He has had loans spells in League 1 and League 2 and he comes here with the chance to play more first-team football.

 

“I think Schlings (Micheál Schlingermann) needs this competition. He hasn’t had it beforehand with respect to the other goalkeepers and it makes a huge difference.

 

“Everyone needs it – someone trying to take your place and knowing they will constantly be looking to get in there because of their ability.

 

“Micheál is a great pro and both he and Mitchell will have a battle now to be number one.”