James Talbot given leave of absence by Bohemians to face mental health challenges

Bohemians have confirmed that James Talbot will be not be involved with the club for the foreseeable future as he deals with mental health challenges he is facing.

The goalkeeper has been with Bohs since 2019 after spending some time playing in the UK before that. He was signed by Sunderland as a teenager, but it was on loan at Darlington in late 2017 that he first saw senior, competitive action.

Talbot was called up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad in 2019, 2020 and 2022, but didn't see game time on those occasions.

"Bohemian FC player James Talbot will be absent from team duties in the coming weeks, and perhaps beyond," the club said in a statement.

"James is facing mental health challenges, known by the club for some time, and is taking time to properly address these.

"James is receiving full support from Bohemian FC and remains a key figure at our club, both as a player and as a person.

"He is now receiving the professional assistance required and we will be working with him towards a full recovery."

Bohemians will begin their 2024 Airtricity Men's Premier Division campaign on 16 February at home to Sligo Rovers.