sevendayweekender – Bolton Wanderers have completed the signing of defender Lewis Temple from Shelbourne for an undisclosed fee. The 20-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with the League One side. The move marks another addition to Bolton’s squad as they plan for the remainder of the campaign and beyond.
Temple arrives after gaining senior experience in the League of Ireland. During the 2025 season, he made 11 league appearances for Shelbourne and played three matches in the Europa Conference League, gaining valuable exposure to European competition. Bolton identified this progress as a clear indicator of his development.
Temple’s performances in both domestic and continental competitions caught the club’s attention. Bolton believe his experience at a young age demonstrates maturity and readiness to take the next step in his career. By competing in European fixtures, Temple faced higher-level challenges that accelerated his learning and development. The club view him as a defender with strong long-term potential. Temple’s signing reflects Bolton’s broader strategy of recruiting emerging talent for the future. By offering a two-year contract, Bolton provides stability and a clear pathway for development.
Temple Describes Move to England as Career Dream
Speaking to the club’s official website, Temple expressed enthusiasm about the transfer. He explained that young players in Ireland often aspire to play in England, and as a result, he described the opportunity as fulfilling a long-held ambition. In addition, Temple acknowledged the significance of joining a club of Bolton’s stature.
Furthermore, Temple said playing for Bolton feels like a dream. He also highlighted the club’s history and reputation, while at the same time expressing excitement about beginning this new chapter in his career. Looking ahead, the defender said he is eager to contribute and establish himself within the squad.
From the club’s perspective, Bolton view Temple’s attitude as an important factor behind the signing. In particular, the club value ambition and a willingness to develop. As part of his progression, Temple will need to adjust to the pace and physicality of League One, with the coaching staff expected to support his integration. Although Bolton have not disclosed the transfer fee, the two-year deal provides a platform for Temple to grow within the club’s structure. Ultimately, performance and consistency will determine his role moving forward.
As the season progresses, Bolton aim to strengthen their competitive position across all competitions. The coaching staff will monitor his adaptation closely as he adjusts to a new league, playing style, and tactical demands. Training performances and early appearances will likely shape his role in the months ahead. Bolton expect the coming period to reveal how quickly Temple can settle, contribute consistently, and develop into a reliable option as the campaign moves forward.
