Former Preston North End, Leeds United, Middlesbrough and Fulham star joins 15th club of his career at 40

Former Preston North End goalkeeper Andy Lonergan has signed with Wigan Athletic.

The 40-year-old was made a free agent this summer after being released by Everton. He has shown no signs of stopping however as he has joined the Latics as a player/goalkeeping-coach.

He will primarily focus on his coaching duties which will help prepare him for when he does retire but he has also been registered as a player. Lonergan will compete with Tom Watson as back-up to Sam Tickle, who was linked with a move to Deepdale earlier this year.

“I’m absolutely buzzing to be here,” said Lonergan to the official club website.

“Shaun Maloney didn’t need to convince me because of the things I heard about him as a manager and a person. 

“I’d never come across the Gaffer before, but from the first meeting, I felt a really good vibe and he was someone I wanted to work with. 

“This is my first coaching role. I’ve done a lot of qualifications and feel like I know a lot about goalkeeping, but to be a First Team Goalkeeper Coach at this age is incredible and the Gaffer has shown massive faith. 

“Two top young goalkeepers are coming through, and to have that group as a starting group for myself personally is fantastic. I want them to kick on, and help them improve on a daily basis.”

Lonergan will bring 24-years of experience to the goalkeeping ranks at Wigan. He began his career at North End and spent 11-years in Lancashire, playing in 231 games. 

The experienced shot-stopper departed in 2011 and went on to play for Leeds United, Bolton Wanderers and Fulham, along with Wolves and Leeds United. For the past few years, he’s been with Liverpool, Stoke City and West Brom, acting as a third-choice for several teams.