New Bolton Wanderers keeper Andy Lonergan aims to challenge Adam Bogdan for number one spot
New Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Andy Lonergan knows he faces a battle to claim the number one sport after he checked in at the Reebok Stadium.
The former Preston North End stopper signed a three-year deal with the Trotters after former club Leeds United signed Paddy Kenny from QPR.
But the 28-year-old knows that while he is providing cover for Adam Bogdan, he will find it hard to accept not being first choice and will push him all the way.
“I've come here to put pressure on Adam,” Lonergan told the club’s website.
“I believe he was Player of the Year last season and did exceptionally well, so it's it going to be a challenge for both of us. But around the squad in general the competition is fierce.
“I've had the privilege of being the number one wherever I've been, so this is a change. It's going to be a challenge but you have to take challenges on.”
Lonergan will join his new team-mates on the pre-season tour to Scotland, which starts against Ayr United on tonight at Somerset Park.
The Preston-born man admits he was lured by Bolton’s challenge to regain their Premier League status at the first attempt, despite interest from other clubs.
He points to the quality of the squad which was relegated from the top-tier last year, but has brought in Keith Andrews and Matt Mills.
He said: “A few other clubs had offers accepted but as soon as I knew of Bolton's interest and the way the club has conducted itself during the talks, I wanted to come here.
"I've played nearly 250 matches in this league and I've come close to getting out of it. The squad here is Premier League quality and I believe it is best placed to get promoted.
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“There's a fantastic squad – I was sat in the changing room today and you could see all the quality players here.
“There's a few of the lads I know pretty well from playing against like Matt Mills, while I used to play with Tyrone Mears. There are a few familiar faces in the backroom staff as well.”
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