Midfielder Jake Doyle-Hayes has signed for Sligo Rovers as the Bit O'Red secure a major addition on the eve of the new SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division season.
The former Republic of Ireland underage international has signed a one-year deal and is available for Saturday's season opener against Waterford at the Showgrounds.
The 26-year-old began his career at Aston Villa aged 16 before enjoying successful loan spells with both Cheltenham Town and Cambridge United.
The Cavan man then moved to the Scottish Premiership with St Mirren in 2020 before a switch to Hibernian where he became an established first-team player.
However injury problems have limited his appearances considerably in the last two seasons; Doyle-Hayes has played just two matches in 18 months.
He departed the Edinburgh club last month having played just short of 70 times for the Easter Road outfit.
Having attracted interest at home and in Scotland, the Ballyjamesduff native has settled on Sligo to restart his career.
"There was obviously a lot of interest in Jake given his quality and experience," Rovers boss John Russell said.
"The level he has played at is extremely high and he brings a lot of experience to the group, so I’m delighted to bring him to the club.
"Jake brings real energy and aggression to our midfield. He is very comfortable on the ball and I think he will fit in perfectly with the way we want to play.
"It was important we added some experience to our group in the window and I feel Jake can make a big impact with us."
Doyle-Hayes says he is excited to get involved in what is shaping up to be a big year for Rovers.
"After the manager got in contact, I spoke to people who I consider to have a good knowledge of the League of Ireland," he said.
"They all mentioned how competitive it was last year and how that’s not likely to change this year. So that’s exciting for me as I know I can make a difference in big moments.
"A few lads I would have played with have played here at home too and they all had great things to say about the league. I also know a few who played here with Rovers and everything they told me was positive. There’s a big fanbase here and I can’t wait to get out there in front of them.
"I was impressed with what John had to tell me about his plans and how he wants the team to play. I’m looking forward now to getting to know the club and my new teammates and getting the season started.
A persistent ankle injury plaguing his 2024 but the midfielder believes he is over the worst.
"I’ve had 10 great years over there," he said of his time in Britain.
"I moved over quite young but had a lot of exposure to some great coaches from a young age. I’ve also played with some top players and have gathered knowledge from them and by being in some really experienced changing rooms. It’s been a tough couple of years for me recently but I’m looking forward to playing as many games as I can for Rovers and getting back to my best.
"I’ll do my best to add to what we already have here. I think this squad is more than capable of finishing high up the league table."
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