Two former Bolton Wanderers players land new clubs for next season

FORMER Wanderers defender Ryan Delaney has signed for League Two Swindon Town.

The Irish defender spent last season at Newport County, captaining the Welsh club and making 41 appearances.

Delaney was part of the Bolton squad promoted from League Two in 2020/21, eventually playing 27 times and scoring three goals – including a crucial winner at Cheltenham Town.

Since leaving the Whites the centre-back has been at Morecambe and had a loan spell with Scunthorpe United, but he is now looking forward to starting a new chapter in Wiltshire.

"I'm delighted that it's all done now and I'm looking forward to the season ahead.

"The stature of the club and the head coach spoke to me about the outlook and what he wants to achieve here and what he wants the players here to strive for, so that really excited me.

"I want just want to get out and play in front of the Swindon fans and, hopefully, achieve success this year."

Former Wanderers youth product Ashley Fletcher has also found a new club, moving to League One with Blackpool after a difficult spell at Watford.

The striker has signed a two-year deal at Bloomfield Road and is looking to kickstart his career again after making just six appearances in three seasons with the Hornets.

The 28-year-old had spells on loan at New York Red Bulls, Wigan Athletic and Sheffield Wednesday but is now happy to be back in the North West.

“It’s been a process to get the deal over the line, but I’m delighted now it’s all done and pleased to be here," he said.

“There’s no getting away from the fact it’s been a tough couple of years, but that’s behind me now and I’m so happy to be somewhere that I’m wanted.

“I hope to bring experience and good performances to help the team achieve our goal this season.”

Fletcher scored 150 goals for the Wanderers age groups between the ages of nine and 12 before moving on to Manchester United.

He was born in Keighley but his family were from Bolton, and moved back to the town when he was still a toddler.

Fletcher grew up as a Bolton fan, watching games at the Reebok, and attended the Oaks Primary and Canon Slade schools.