Sligo Rovers have announced the loan signing of New Zealand defender Nando Pijnaker on loan from Portuguese club Rio Ave.
Pijnaker, who has been capped at senior level and was part of the recent ‘All Whites’ Olympic Games team will spend the 2022 season at The Showgrounds subject to international clearance.
Predominantly a left-sided centre-half, the 22 year old has previously had spells in Switzerland with Grasshopper and on loan to Danish side Helsingor.
Having played all four matches at the Olympics and winning a senior cap against Lithuania, the Netherlands born, 6 foot 3 defender spoke of his delight of joining the Bit O’Red to sligorovers.com.
“It’s fantastic to be here. It’s a move that appealed to me and my main motivation is to play matches and help the team. I know the season is 36 games plus Cup football and European games so I know a chance will come at some point and I will take it.”
Sligo Rovers begin the 2022 season at home to Bohemians on the 19th of February.
