Andy Boyle becomes first new Blues' signing ahead of 2025
Waterford FC new signing Andy Boyle, who was unveiled by the club as their first new signing ahead of the 2025 season. Photo: Waterford FC
Waterford FC have landed the signature of the experienced defender Andy Boyle as he becomes the first new signing for Head Coach Keith Long ahead of the 2025 SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division.
Boyle spent over four seasons with Dundalk, but he has decided that the time is "right" to look to the future and a new challenge after the Oriel Park clubs were relegated from the top flight.
The 33-year-old is no stranger to League of Ireland fans, having two lengthy spells with Dundalk FC either side of move abroad to the UK where he plied his trade in England and Scotland where he made 12 appearances with Preston North End before having loan spells at Doncaster, Dundee FC, and Ross County.
After landing four league titles and two FAI Cups during his time in the League of Ireland to date, his performances at club level earned him a call up for the Republic of Ireland and he won his first cap in March 2017 in a 1-0 defat against Iceland at the Aviva Stadium.
Speaking on his move to Waterford, Boyle said: “It’s brilliant to be here. As soon as Keith rang me a couple of weeks ago, I was really happy to hear he wanted me to come down. I’m really happy to get going now.
"It’s a club that’s going places. Every time you play against them, they’re an exciting team to play against. I think the little bit of experience I have will help the group here.
"Of course it was a difficult decision to leave Dundalk. Over the last number of years it hasn’t gone to plan – I think everyone knows of the off-the-field issues, but look I’m just looking forward now to the future and a fresh start."
Boyle is looking forward to adding experience to the squad. "The experience was something Keith mentioned to me, to come in & help the group. I’m just looking forward to meeting the lads now & the new season.
"I’ve always enjoyed playing at the RSC, especially of late with the crowds being really good down here, along with the pitch being really good, so it’s a great venue to play your football in.
"Keith’s been in and around the league for a long time, he’s a big reason why I’ve come to the club. I’ve spoken to him over the years when it hasn’t worked out in the past, but now I’m really looking forward to working with him here. He’s shown me around the facilities and they’re top class here, so it’s a club definitely on the up.”
Commenting on the signing, Keith Long said: “Andy is the type of player we need at the club. He’s got a huge amount of League of Ireland experience & European experience, along with experience playing in the UK.
"I think if we’re looking for leaders, Andy will certainly bring those leadership qualities to the team. He has lots of experience like I said and I’m sure he can help the team progress on the pitch this year. He’s a great professional with a great attitude, and we’re delighted to have him.”
