Airtricity League Premier Division club Sporting Fingal have announced the signing of former UCD midfielder Greg Bolger.

The Republic of Ireland Under-23 international will be a major addition to Liam Buckley squad ahead of their second campaign in Ireland’s top-flight.

Buckley has also re-signed Gary O’Neill and Colin Hawkins, whose contracts expired at the end of last season. Fingal have nine other players under contract from last season.

Bolger (22) admitted the attraction of European football, which Fingal secured by finishing fourth in the league last term, was a major factor in his decision to choose the North Dubliners as his new club over a number of other suitors.

“There’s a big season ahead for Fingal and I’m delighted to be part of it,” he said. “I’ve never played in the UEFA Europa League before so that’s a plus and there’s the Setanta Cup competition to look forward to which kicks off in a few weeks’ time.

“I enjoyed my time at UCD working under Pete Mahon and Martin Russell but I felt this was right stage of my career to move on. There are some great players at Fingal and signing for the club allows me to train with those each weekday and improve my game.

“Sligo and Fingal were regarded last season as the sides in the Airtricity League which played the best style of football. Getting the ball down and playing suit my game.”

Buckley is delighted to have recruited Bolger. He said: “Greg was one of the brightest young talents during the last campaign and his addition will complement the other creative midfielders in the squad.”

Equally, the Fingal boss is pleased to have secured the services of both O’Neill and Hawkins.

He said: “Gary and Colin are seasoned campaigners in the league at this stage and the benefit of their experience to our group is immeasurable.

“Each contributed to what was an encouraging debut campaign in the Premier Division for us last season and they remain hungry for further success.”

Buckley and Club Secretary John O’Brien attended a Club Supporters Meeting on Monday night where an update on various matters was given.

“We’ve been working hard off the park to restructure over the last couple of months given the departure of our benefactor and Chairman Gerry Gannon,” he said.

“Progress has been steady and, while I’ll working off a reduced budget, I am optimistic about our prospects of being competitive during the forthcoming campaign.”