Kenny thrilled as Sheffield United seal ‘great’ Hourihane deal from Aston Villa
Paddy Kenny has insisted Sheffield United have sealed a “great signing” after Conor Hourihane joined on loan from Aston Villa.
The former Blades star, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 30-year-old is of “Premier League standard”.
As confirmed on Monday (30th August), Hourihane has joined the Blades on a season-long loan from Villa.
With a year left on his contract at Villa Park, the midfielder took to Instagram to confirm his time at the club had come to an end.
Hourihane was allowed to join Swansea City back in January after falling down the Villa pecking order.
He helped the Swans reach the Championship play-off final.
Kenny suggested Sheffield United had been missing a “creative” presence in midfield ahead of the transfer deadline.
Kenny told Football Insider’s Adam Williams: “Listen to me, getting him over the line, he’s definitely Premier League standard.
“To have someone of his calibre in that team, that creative player, it’s exactly what they need really.
“He’s a great signing.”
Hourihane is an experienced campaigner in the Championship after spells with Ipswich, Barnsley, Villa and Swansea.
He has a total of 145 second-tier appearances under his belt, the majority of which came with the Villans.
He helped the Midlands giants seal promotion via the play-offs in 2019.
The Republic of Ireland international has also played 31 times in the Premier League.
He will leave Villa after making 151 appearances across all competitions for the club.
In other news, Football Insider revealed Sheffield United have held talks over Championship signing.