WANDERERS have completed the signing of Bolton-born goalkeeper Joel Coleman on a two-year-contract.

The 27-year-old keeper had signed a short-term contract with Ipswich Town last season but was released in the summer and keen to return to the North West.

Coleman started his professional career with Oldham Athletic and earned a move to Huddersfield Town in 2016, where he worked with Wanderers’ recruitment chief, Chris Markham.

The 6ft 6ins keeper has since played for Shrewsbury Town on loan, and had spells with Fleetwood and Rochdale, and joins Bolton as competition for Nathan Baxter, who was officially signed earlier this week.

“I’m so happy it’s all done and that I’m now part of this ambitious club which wants to be back in the Championship and beyond”, he said.

“We were close last season but hopefully we can go one step further and kick on this season.”

Coleman grew up playing football for the North Walkden junior club, even competing in cup finals at the Reebok. He is now excited to be representing his hometown club and wants to play a part in them returning to Championship level.

“Being from the area, I know what it means to the fans. I’ve been to quite a few Bolton games and I know what the atmosphere is like, and I want to be part of it.

“I was born here and so were my little boys so it’s a massive part of my life as well as some of my family and friends supporting Bolton too. To be able to represent Bolton is massive for me and a dream come true.

“I’ve played in all four divisions now and you want to be in the top divisions and hopefully I can contribute in any way that I can to get this club into the Championship.

“I’ve spoken to all the staff and there’s only one aim, there’s no question about it. They want to be in the Championship and after having a good season last season, we want to be looking at automatic promotion this season.”

Alongside Baxter, Coleman hopes he can help the Whites recapture the defensive stability they had last season.

James Trafford kept a club record 26 clean sheets in all competitions and success, says the Whites’ new addition, can once again be built from the back.

“It’s well documented how well James Trafford did last season, as well as the whole defensive unit. If we can get over 20 clean sheets again this season, we’ll be there or there abouts,” he told the club.

“I didn’t have a pre-season last season so I’m even more buzzing to have a full pre-season to put us in a good position to start the season.”