Reece Hutchinson signs permanent deal with Sligo Rovers through 2024

Michael Gallagher of UCD and Reece Hutchinson of Sligo Rovers.

Michael Gallagher of UCD and Reece Hutchinson of Sligo Rovers. Credit: John Crothers (ETPhotos)

Sligo Rovers have secured the services of defender Reece Hutchinson on a permanent basis, keeping him at The Showgrounds until the end of the 2024 season.

Hutchinson, who is currently on loan from Cheltenham Town, has become a staple in the team's defence, starting 14 out of 15 of Rovers’ league games this season.

The 23-year-old has quickly endeared himself to Rovers' fans with consistent performances, displaying prowess in both defensive and attacking plays.

Sligo Rovers manager John Russell couldn't hide his delight at Hutchinson's signing, stating on the club's official website, "I’m delighted we have secured Reece on a permanent deal. He is a really good guy who has fitted in so well with the group. His performances since joining us have been superb."

Russell continued to heap praise on the defender, noting his "attacking threat with his passing, dribbling and crossing ability." He also highlighted the productive partnership Hutchinson has formed with Will Fitzgerald on the left side of the team, a pairing responsible for many of the team's goals this year.

Hutchinson started his career with Burton Albion, where he spent four years before a stint at Cheltenham Town in 2021. He initially joined Rovers on loan in February, but his standout performances quickly made his permanent signing a priority for the club.

Expressing his excitement about the move, Hutchinson said, "I am very happy to have committed my long-term future with Sligo Rovers. There are a lot of reasons why I signed here, but the big one was purely the enjoyment of playing games and becoming the best version of myself again."

He expressed his ambition to be a part of the club's forward trajectory, with the goal of qualifying for European football. "Over the next 18 months or so, I hope to bring my qualities to the team and reward the supporters with good performances and plenty of wins," Hutchinson added.

The signing comes ahead of a busy period for Sligo Rovers, with five SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division games scheduled before the mid-season break on June 9th. The next home game will see Derry City visit The Showgrounds on Saturday, with kick-off at 7.45pm.