Andy Lonergan Officially Signs On

The date is July 17 and already, Bolton Wanderers have signed four new players to the squad. After introducing Joe McKee, Keith Andrews, and Matt Mills, the Trotters have officially unveiled former Leeds United goalkeeper, Andy Lonergan. As part of the transfer merry-go-round, Lonergan was deemed surplus to Leeds' requirements after they signed Paddy Kenny from QPR who, in turn, was deemed surplus after Queens Park Rangers' signing of Rob Green.

Lonergan has signed a three year deal with Bolton Wanderers.

After Neil Warnock once again signed Paddy Kenny, Lonergan knew that he would not be getting many goalkeeping minutes at Leeds. While he won't start as Bolton's number one goalkeeper, he certainly will be able to fight with Adam Bogdan for a spot. The new competition after Jussi Jaaskelainen's West Ham move will keep both goalkeepers on their toes.

Speaking to the official website, Owen Coyle said:

"There were four clubs in for Andy so we are pleased that he signed for us.

"We have a player who has a wealth of experience at this level and also his signing will add to the competition for the keeper's jersey."

The Bolton News reckons that Lonergan's fee was in the neighborhood of just £200,000. Lonergan will join Bolton on their preseason trip to Scotland this coming week. Lonergan wore the number 1 shirt at Leeds but will have to choose a new number at Bolton with 13, 17, 20, 24, 28, 29, 34, 40-42, and over 43 are still available for him to pick from.