'What Glenn said about Stoke really excited me' - Whelan a factor in Lawal's choice

FANTASTIC ADDITION: Ireland’s Bosun Lawal action against Iceland U21s. Picture: INPHO/Jim Coughlan

Jon Walters and Glenn Whelan were influencers in Bosun Lawal’s decision to join Stoke City for an initial fee of £2m.

Walters coached Ireland’s U19s when Lawal was part of the squad and as Stoke’s sporting director since earlier this year identified the Celtic powerhouse as a target for the Championship club.

Lawal, a graduate of the legendary St Kevin’s Boys club in Dublin, was highly regarded by Brendan Rodgers and signed a long-term contract extension but gametime was a driving force, as initially revealed on Friday by the Irish Examiner.

A flock of suitors circled once his availability was a possibility but Stoke have got their man, albeit his debut will be delayed due to a short-term injury.

As he puts the final touches to his transfer, Lawal was in the home stand for Stoke’s opening Championship 1-0 win over Coventry City and admitted his chat with former Potter Whelan, when he was promoted to the senior Ireland squad for the June friendlies helped angle him towards the club.

“The club is massive, it didn’t need selling to me, but when I spoke to Glenn Whelan and Charlie Adam, who coached me for Ireland and Fleetwood, what they said about Stoke City really excites me for my journey here,” he told the official site upon sealing a four-year contract.

“The gaffer and Jon are full of ambition and that really attracted me, they want to take the club back to the highest level.

“I witnessed the electric atmosphere in the stadium first-hand on Saturday, which was so enjoyable to watch.

“I can’t wait to be out there experiencing that myself in the not-too-distant future and to enjoy long term success here at Stoke City.” 

Walters added on a player equally comfortable in defence as midfield: “Bosun is a player who I've followed closely for a number of years. After competing with several top clubs, we are proud to have secured his signature.

“Our ambitions are perfectly aligned, and we believe he possesses all the attributes to reach the very top of the game.

“He is not only a fantastic addition to our squad but also a key part of our long term vision for the club. We’re confident that his talent and drive will make a significant impact as we look to achieve our goals together.”