David GOMBE
Uganda Cranes defender Toby Sibbick has completed a move to English League one side Wigan Athletic, subject to EFL, FA approval and international clearance.
Sibbick joins Wigan on a two year employment contract from Scotland side Hearts where he has spent two and half years.
The Ugandan expressed his delight upon joining Wigan
“I am very happy to be here. I am looking forward to the challenge and can’t wait to get started.
“I feel like I’ve got different qualities, and I can’t wait to get on the training pitch and get to know the lads.”
His new manager Shaun Maloney revealed that he has admired the Sibbick for a long time
“I am extremely pleased to welcome Toby to our Football Club. Toby is a defender who can play in any central position within the back four and in any of the back three positions.
“I have admired Toby for a long time, and he’s impressed me with his journey in the EFL and Scottish Premiership so far.
“He is a very intelligent footballer who fits the profile we have been looking for. In possession, he has qualities and is an extremely aggressive defender. I am really looking forward to working closely with Toby, and I wish him the best of luck at our Football Club.” Said Maloney
Sibbick was born and raised in West London and came through the youth system with AFC Wimbledon, signing his first professional contract with the Dons back in August 2016.
Having made his senior appearance against Peterborough United in April 2017, Sibbick’s real first-team breakthrough came in the 2018/19 Sky Bet League One season, where he made 31 appearances across all competitions. Showcasing his versatility and clear quality, Sibbick’s eye-catching form earned him a move to the division above with Barnsley in the summer of 2019.
He made 18 Championship appearances in the first half of the 2019/20 campaign before heading north of the border for his first spell with Hearts. Despite a promising start, his time at Tynecastle was cut short by injury, illness, and a curtailed season due to Covid-19.
After a loan stint at Belgian side Oostende, and a return to Barnsley’s first team, Sibbick re-joined Hearts in January 2022 on a permanent transfer.
He made 41 appearances during his first full season in Scotland, playing in the UEFA Europa Conference League and helping Hearts finish fourth.
In March this year, he made his Uganda Cranes debut during the international friendly games against Comoros and Ghana.
