Exeter City has officially bolstered its squad with the significant acquisition of Irish midfielder Jake Doyle-Hayes, a move poised to inject fresh dynamism and experience into the heart of the Grecians’ team. This highly anticipated signing marks a pivotal moment for the club as they continue to strengthen their competitive edge ahead of the upcoming season, signaling clear ambitions on the pitch.
The agreement to bring the 26-year-old talent from League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers was finalized for an undisclosed fee, a standard practice in professional football transfers. This strategic recruitment is currently pending final approval from both the English Football League (EFL) and international clearance bodies, which are routine administrative steps for cross-border player movements.
Doyle-Hayes arrives at St James Park with a robust and varied professional background, having honed his skills across prestigious leagues in England, Scotland, and Ireland. His journey through different footballing environments has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of diverse tactical approaches and the demanding physicality of the game, making him a versatile addition to Exeter City’s midfield options.
His senior career saw a notable chapter begin at the close of 2020 when he transitioned to Scottish football, joining St Mirren. During his tenure there, he quickly established himself as a consistent performer, making 30 appearances before the culmination of the 2020/21 season, showcasing his adaptability and immediate impact in a new league setup.
Following his impressive stint at St Mirren, Jake Doyle-Hayes secured a high-profile move to Hibernian in the summer of 2021, a testament to his burgeoning reputation. He initially penned a two-year contract with the Edinburgh-based club and, owing to a highly successful first half of the 2021/22 campaign, swiftly earned a further one-year extension, underscoring his value to the team’s ambitions.
Over four seasons with Hibernian, the dynamic midfielder amassed a considerable 69 appearances, demonstrating his durability and consistent presence in their lineup. His departure for Sligo Rovers in February of the current year on a short-term contract preceded this exciting new chapter with the Grecians, bringing his journey full circle back to English football.
Grecians manager Gary Caldwell expressed his enthusiasm for the new signing, highlighting Doyle-Hayes’s technical prowess and strategic versatility. “Jake is a player I worked with at Hibs who is a technically good midfield player as a six or an eight,” Caldwell remarked, emphasizing the player’s capacity to operate effectively in both defensive and box-to-box midfield roles, which will offer Exeter City significant tactical flexibility.
Notably, Doyle-Hayes joins Exeter City as the club’s designated 1931 Fund player, a unique and impactful initiative significantly part-funded by the unwavering support of dedicated fans. This innovative model underscores the deep connection between the club and its community, allowing supporters to directly contribute to player acquisitions and reinforce the team’s strength on the pitch.
This significant transfer not only reinforces Exeter City’s midfield but also embodies the collective spirit of the club and its supporters. The arrival of Jake Doyle-Hayes is expected to energize the squad and provide a fresh impetus as the Grecians look to build on their foundations and achieve their aspirations in the competitive world of professional football.
