Ex-Bolton Wanderers Youth Mark Connolly Signs For Crawley Town

21-year-old defender Mark Connolly was part of the 15-player Bolton Wanderers exodus at the end of last season. The youngster was released by the club after manager Owen Coyle deemed him excess. Connolly was originally purchased from Wolverhampton Wanderers for the sum of £1,000,000, what some will say is a heavy price for a then-17 year old.

Connolly never cut it at Bolton and was given a few bench appearances but never broke onto the field with the first team despite being captain of the Reserves side for part of his BWFC tenure. The young Irish central defender is officially moving to Crawley Town FC in League One on a two-year deal as the Reds hope to retain their League One spot after being promoted from League Two at the end of last season.

The former Bolton man enjoyed a loan spell at League Two side Macclesfield last year where he made seven appearances. Speaking of the transfer, Crawley Town Director of Football, Steve Coppell, said

"He is a talented footballer who is very versatile and is looking to start his career afresh with the club.

"We believe he has a lot to offer and that he will flourish in our squad."