Sligo Rovers have signed defender Edwin Agbaje on a short-term deal until until the end of the season.
The Offaly native, who operates predominantly on the right side, joins the Bit O'Red having departed Championship side Ipswich Town recently.
The 21-year-old began his life in football at local side Edenderry Town, before moving on to join the academy at Shamrock Rovers at 14. Two years later, he was picked up by the Tractor Boys and spent five years there and was also loaned to both Sutton United and Yeovil Town. Agbaje has represented the Republic of Ireland at various underage levels and was named Ipswich’s Academy Player of the Year in 2023.
Agbaje is the seventh new player in the door this summer as manager John Russell looks to finish the season strongly.
Speaking to sligorovers.com, the full-back says he feels the Showgrounds is the ideal place for him to continue his career, noting the club’s model and record in terms of giving youth a chance.
"I spoke to people at the club a lot over the summer and got to hear in detail about the style of play and how things are done here at Rovers," he said.
"It really impressed me and Sligo seems like a place where I can really fit in. It’s a great place for young players like myself to develop. John (Russell) has a proven track record of bringing through, developing and giving chances to younger players like me so the opportunity here speaks for itself.
"I’ve been here for a few sessions now and I am loving it. I’ve got on really well with the players and coaches so now I’m just looking forward to getting out there and helping the team out.
"I love to attack, to get forward and support the front men. But I’m a defender first and foremost and my job is to keep the ball out of our net and that’s what I’m here to do."
Russell has long been an admirer of the former Shamrock Rovers defender and says the move is one that he hopes will benefit both parties.
"Edwin is an extremely talented player," he says.
"He’s got all the attributes you look for in a defender. He has pace, he’s strong, aggressive and good on the ball.
"We feel he can make a big impact here between now and the end of the season."
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