Sean Regan has been busy in the transfer market recently bringing in the likes of Matty Waller and Chris Lever and now Jonny Irving becomes his latest signing as Regan prepares his squad for the second half of the season.

Moving during the winter period is never an easy decision for a player, but the Eagles have always been on the mind of Irving as he said: "Being from Bradford I have always kept my eye out for Eccleshill's results and gone up to watch them when I can. So when Eccleshill showed some interest in me I didn't take too much persuading."

Irving continues the club's ideology of bringing in good local talent and he joins a very competitive squad; something the former Nostell captain knows about, having faced Eccleshill twice this season. Speaking of the competitive squad he stated: "Having played against Eccleshill twice this season I know they have a lot of quality players, not just in midfield. I will have to train hard and work my way into the team. It's a competitive league and injuries are common so strength in depth is important."

Injuries are something that has hit the Eccleshill squad throughout this season and Irving is no stranger to knocks either as he revealed: "I'm really looking forward to getting involved with the rest of the lads, I've just got a slight injury to shake off first," something Regan will hope he can do sooner than later.

With Regan being one of the league's most respected managers, it is clear that he played a part in persuading Irving to join the club as he stated: "Sean (Regan) was a big influence in my decision to join Eccleshill, He's a top coach one I hope can develop me further on a personal level. Adrian Benson (club chairman) was also a big part of my decision, numerous phone calls with them both explaining what the club is about and how they want to progress really sold it to me."

After revealing that he has always "liked Steven Gerrard, especially in his prime" Irving went on to discuss what sort of a player he is: "I'd say my best position is center midfield. I'm a box to box type of player who likes to play good football but do the hard and ugly stuff work when necessary."

Now with a competitive squad at his disposal, Regan will be hopeful that 2017 can be a strong year for the Eagles and Irving will be ready to be a part of that as soon as his slight injury is shaken off.