Sky Bet League One side Bolton Wanderers have completed the signing of Derry City defender Eoin Toal – and former Armagh City man – for an undisclosed fee.
The former Northern Ireland U21 international captain has signed a three-year deal with The Trotters, bringing an end to his successful spell with the League of Ireland Premier Division outfit.
The 23-year-old made 155 appearances and scored six goals during his six seasons with the Candystripes, leading them into the Europa Conference League Qualifying Rounds through a fourth placed finish last season, and guiding them into second place in the current season, only behind defending champions Shamrock Rovers.
Toal will take the number 18 shirt at the University of Bolton Stadium, and he believes that he is ready to take the next step in his career.
“I’ve seen a lot of players and a few of my friends who have come over to League One and done really well, and I don’t see why I can’t do that,” he told the club’s official website.
“Bolton is a massive club and I think it was just too big of a club for me to turn down. It’s a very good opportunity for me to showcase myself over here in England.”
The central defender began his career at Armagh City FC and he progressed through the youth ranks as captain of the club before making his first team debut in 2015 at just 16 years old.
Just a year previous, Toal was selected to represent County Armagh in the SuperCupNI (formerly known as NI Milk Cup), which was host to some of the most talented youngsters in world football, including current Manchester United ace, Marcus Rashford.
Following over 50 senior appearances for the Eagles, it was clear that Toal was a player of huge potential, which lead to his leap into professional football with his transfer to Derry City in 2017. In February 2021, the Armagh man’s leadership qualities were realised, and he was appointed club captain by then-manager, Declan Devine.
Following a number of promising performances over his six seasons at the Candystripes, Toal has finally completed his move to Bolton Wanderers after weeks of speculation, becoming the fourth new addition to Ian Evatt’s side.
Armagh City FC, posting a good luck message on social media, said: “Best wishes to Eoin Toal from everyone at Armagh City F.C. as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.
“Eoin came through the club from mini soccer to making his first team debut as a 16-year-old in 2015. He made over 50 appearances for the club before his move to Derry City Football Club in 2017.”
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