Bolton Wanderers are delighted to announce long-serving midfield star Josh Sheehan has further committed himself to the Whites by signing a new contract with the club.
Sheehan, who joined Wanderers in June, 2021, has agreed a deal running until the summer of 2028 with a further 12-month option.
The new contract means Sheehan, whose existing deal was due to expire at the end of next season, will get the chance to significantly add to the 175 appearances – and 17 goals – he has chalked up since signing as a free agent from Newport County.
The 30-year-old has since become one of Wanderers’ most influential and enduring players as a midfield play-maker and orchestrator, twice helping the Whites reach the League One play-offs and win the EFL Trophy in 2023.
Wanderers’ Player of the Year in 2023/24, Sheehan was also named in the EFL and PFA League One teams of the season for that campaign which saw Wanderers reach the play-off final.
The former Swansea City youngster has also established himself in the Wales’ squad during his time at the Toughsheet Community Stadium and is again likely to be named in Craig Bellamy’s party for Wales’ World Cup play-off bid next month.
Sheehan’s new contract is a reward for continuing as a key performer since the arrival of Steven Schumacher as head coach just over a year ago and a show of commitment from a player who will spend more of his best years with the Whites.
In a major boost for the club, Sheehan – who has settled in the area to make a major impact on and off the pitch with Wanderers – will continue his quest to win promotion with the Whites with at least two more full years to come from the Welsh wizard, who is delighted to have extended his stay.
“Playing here, when you walk out at this stadium, there aren't many places better. Being up and around this place me and my family call this home now, which is another driving factor,” said Sheehan, who is determined to help lead the Whites out of League One.
“From the minute I got here that's what the goal was. What I've always wanted to do is to prove myself to the fans here and for this team, and every team I've been a part of, the main objective has been to write our name in history and get the club back to the Championship, which is at least where it should be. That's all I've ever wanted.
“I think everything has combined well for me at this point. The age I’m at and the experience I’ve got I think helps with the position I play, and I also think I can help the team tactically and technically and both on and off the pitch.
“I can bring some international experience into the team and I feel I'm always here for the lads, those that have been here for a while and the new ones when they come in if they want to talk or ask any questions regarding the club.
“It means a lot to know that I’ll be playing here for even longer and I’m looking forward to doing all those things for the next few years.”
Head Coach Steven Schumacher added: “I’m really pleased for Josh. I’ve known how good of a player he is for a few years now and I think he’s shown this season how important he is to the team.
“He’s been really consistent with his performances. He’s a big part of our squad and a full international so we’re really pleased he’s agreed to commit his future to us.”
Josh has signed up for next season and beyond, have you? Secure your 2026/27 season ticket before the Early Bird deadline by clicking here!