WANDERERS have completed a deal to sign goalkeeper Luke Southwood from Cheltenham Town on a two-year deal.

The 26-year-old, capped once by Northern Ireland, was ever-present for the Robins last season but turned down the chance to stay with the club after they were relegated to League Two.

Southwood becomes Ian Evatt’s second summer signing after the arrival of Chris Forino last week from Wycombe and says he cannot wait to help Wanderers challenge at the top end of League One this season.

“I’m absolutely buzzing to get it over the line,” he said.

“There is so many reasons (why I’ve joined). Playing against Bolton over the last couple of years and seeing the fans here is enough of a reason in itself.

“Speaking to the lads I know that are already here also made it an easy decision. The gaffer then explained what his plans were and what he wants to see from both myself and the team, and I was on board with it straight away.

“As soon as this opportunity came around, I couldn’t wait to get it done. I just can’t wait to get going now.

“Everyone knows what the goal is for this season, and we’ll be doing all we can to make it happen.”

Southwood was injured on the final day of the season in a game against Stevenage, with reports at the time suggesting he had broken his leg.

Wanderers are confident, however, that the problem is not a serious one and believe the former Reading stopper can provide good competition.

His arrival does however pose questions for last season’s back-up keeper, Joel Coleman, who struggled for consistency after coming into the team in February as cover.

Southwood has 214 career appearances and has spent the last two seasons at Whaddon Road, the first having been on loan from Reading.

He also had loan spells in non-league football with Bath City and Eastleigh and two seasons with Scottish Premiership side Hamilton.

He played youth football for England but qualifies to play for Northern Ireland through his grandmother and made his debut for the country in a 3-1 win against Luxembourg in March 2022.