Wimbledon sign former Bray and Shamrock Rovers defender on loan from Hull City

Wimbledon have added to their squad by securing left-back James Furlong on a season-long loan from Hull City.

Furlong, a Dublin native, competed for the Republic of Ireland at the U16, U17, and U21 levels. He began his professional career with the neighborhood team St. Joseph’s Boys, then went on to play for Bray Wanderers, which helped him get a move to Shamrock Rovers. Furlong made his Shamrock Rovers senior debut at the age of sixteen.

Furlong moved to Brighton & Hove Albion, where he lived for more than four years, as his odyssey proceeded. Against Forest Green Rovers in an EFL Cup match, he made his senior debut for Brighton.

Furlong made 16 appearances on loan at Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership last season, where he picked up valuable experience.

After that, in September, he became a permanent member of Hull City, and earlier this year, he made his FA Cup debut against Birmingham City. Furlong suffered an injury setback in January, but he’s healthy and ready to help Wimbledon in Sky Bet League Two.

Furlong stated, “I want to play as many games as I can, keep improving as a player, and help the Club return to League One as soon as possible.”

“Hopefully, this season, we can accomplish it together. I want to settle down, get noticed here, and mix in with the boys. The manager and I got along well right away, from what I’ve heard. Wimbledon wants me to demonstrate my abilities, support the group, and blend in.

Furlong went on to describe his playing style, saying, “I like to get forward and get crosses in. I’m very attack-minded.” I take great pleasure in my defensive one-on-one combat. I like to move up and down the pitch, be aggressive, and be on the front foot.

“James brings something to the squad that we are missing,” manager Johnnie Jackson said, expressing his joy over the signing. His versatility as a left-back or left wing-back allows us greater adaptability. After a fantastic loan season in Scotland the previous year, he believes this is the ideal next move. He wants to come in and help us win games because he is hungry and young.