Boston United have completed the signings of Niall Canavan and Lennon Wheeldon ahead of their National League opener against Aldershot Town. The Pilgrims add experience and youth to their squad as they prepare for the new season.
Who are the new signings?
Boston United have signed 35-year-old centre-half Niall Canavan and 20-year-old striker Lennon Wheeldon on one-year deals. Canavan brings vast experience to the defence, while Wheeldon joins from Derby County after impressing on loan at South Shields last season.
Manager Paul Hurst said: "The squad is coming together nicely. We were looking at Niall before we signed Jamie Grimes. It is important we have some experience in the squad."
Why these signings matter
Hurst believes Canavan's presence will ease the burden on other defenders. "Having someone else takes the weight off one person by having another experienced head at the back," he explained. "If someone gets injured early on there is another one there to fill the void or they play in the team together."
Wheeldon's versatility is also a key factor. "He can play as a 10 or a centre forward so gives us options in an area of the pitch in which we were a bit light," Hurst added.
Pre-season form and next fixture
The Pilgrims ended their pre-season with a 0-0 draw against Grimsby Town and a 2-0 defeat to Hednesford. Hurst admitted he was disappointed with the performance at Hednesford but is now focused on the season opener.
"We will be in front of our own fans and the aim will always be to try to get off to a winning start," he said. Boston United's next fixture is at home against FC Halifax Town on 16 February 2027, with the team currently sitting 9th in the table.
