A new-look Cork City but goal remains the same for veteran Greg Bolger

A lot has changed inside the walls of Cork City's residences in Bishopstown and Turner's Cross since the last time Greg Bolger was around. 

Much if not all of the senior playing staff he played with during his ultra-successful two-year spell throughout 2016 and 2017 have moved on and a new crop have now emerged.

For Bolger, while there are still several familiar faces among the wider staff at City, he now finds himself at the very top of the experience ranks in a youthful squad.

The 35-year-old midfield 'six', while acknowledging his role within the dressing room, isn't paying too much attention to the differences since leaving in 2017. The goal ahead of their First Division opener with Kerry - albeit at a level below - remains the same.

"Cork City is one of the biggest clubs in the country and we’re not where we want to be," Bolger said. "Hopefully we get promoted by winning the title. 

"Whatever division I’m in, my aim is to win the league. Pressure comes with that and I’d like the young lads to embrace that. 

"Regardless of going for the league or not, there’s [always] pressure playing for Cork City."

The opportunity to return to Leeside provided the perfect package for Bolger - now sharing a house with fellow midfielder Barry Coffey - to continue his League of Ireland career.

Coming back to a club he enjoyed such a fruitful time at has not only given him a chance to earn yet more silverware, it will also allow him to broaden his horizons in preparation for life after football.

"I had a few options to stay in the Premier, including [staying with] Sligo, so I had to weigh things up," he said. "There’s things going on in the background with coaching badges and looking beyond my playing career. 

"I’m no spring chicken