Carl McHugh has ended a six-year spell in India to return to Ireland after signing for Sligo Rovers.
The 32-year-old Donegal man is John Russell's second new addition ahead of next season, agreeing a two-year-deal with the Bit O'Red after leaving FC Goa.
A native of Lettermacaward on the Donegal coast, McHugh began his professional career with Reading before joining Bradford City in 2012 following a short stint on loan at Dundalk.
At Bradford, he achieved promotion from League Two in 2013 and helped the Bantams to a famous League Cup final appearance that year, with McHugh scoring past fellow countyman and Irish centurion Shay Given in an epic semi-final win over Aston Villa.
He went on to feature for Plymouth and spent three years as a familiar face at Motherwell before making the move to Asia and the Indian Super League, winning that competition twice along with success in the Indian Super Cup before departing FC Goa during the summer after a second-placed ISL finish.
McHugh was capped at every youth level with the Republic of Ireland early in his career, up to and including Under-21 level.
After over a decade away, he admitted coming home appealed strongly.
"John reached out to me a while back about making a move back to Ireland and we've stayed in touch since," he said.
"I kept a close eye on Rovers and the league in general and it's clear it's a very well-run club. Last year, they really played some very nice football with some really talented young players. After speaking to John, working with him was a big part of signing too.
"He's done a great job the last few years and I know how highly regarded he is within Irish football.
"He's so passionate about this club and how we can all improve things. I think I'll learn a lot from him.
"I watched a lot of Rovers, especially the second half of last season. The team went on a great run and it's clear to see how much talent is within it. Knowing that there's a strong core already here, it gives me a lot of optimism. Hopefully I can add to that.
"I just felt like it was a really exciting time to join here and it comes at a great time in my career. I want to play in Europe, which is something I've never done. I want to achieve that at the Showgrounds and of course win a trophy or two. That would be amazing."
Russell, who has already recruited Archie Meekison from Bohemians in the off-season, said of McHugh's arrival: "I know from our conversations, Carl is excited about the challenge ahead. He's watched a lot of our games so I feel his transition into our team will be seamless.
"Carl is someone who has played at a really high level throughout his career so I’m delighted to bring him to the club.
"I felt it was important to bring in an experienced midfielder who could dictate the play while also giving us that balance and defensive quality in our team."
Sligo now have 13 senior players signed for the 2026 season, although they face a fight to hang onto the likes of Owen Elding and Jad Hakiki with bids likely to come for the duo during the transfer window.
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