Ex-Hibs midfielder Jake Doyle-Hayes makes Sligo Rovers move

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