Burton Albion Football Club

Brewers bring in striker and right back

Burton Albion manager Gary Rowett has completed a double signing to add to his squad ahead of this weekend’s Football League kick off. Rowett has signed 22 year old Scottish striker Matt Paterson on a six month deal and 19 year old Blackburn Rovers right back Anthony O’Connor on an initial one month loan. Both deals are subject to the confirmation of official paperwork.

Both players have featured for Burton during pre-season, with O’Connor playing in the opening pre-season friendly against Aston Villa and Paterson featuring against Ilkeston Town and Leeds United.

Paterson began his career at Southampton where he made 45 appearances before moving to Southend United in 2010. During his time at Southend Paterson has also spent time on loan at Stockport County, Hamilton Academical and Forest Green Rovers.

Republic of Ireland Under 19 international O’Connor can play centre back or right back and has trained with the Blackburn Rovers first team this summer after progressing through the academy system at Ewood Park.

Speaking shortly after signing his six month deal Paterson said, ‘I had a difficult time at Southend United but that’s behind me. I’m getting myself positive and thinking in the right ways and I want to show people what I can do. I’m looking forward and raring to go. The most important thing is to get back out playing.

‘I’m here to work hard, I’m looking forward to the challenge, we’ve got a great bunch of lads here. The manager is spot on. My pre-season hasn’t been spot on but I’ve looked after myself and I feel great.

O’Connor said, ‘I’ve just been eager to get out and play first team football. I came to Burton a few weeks ago and played against Aston Villa and after getting a taste of it I wanted to get out and play. It will be my league debut but I’m confident in my ability and I know what I can do.

‘I can play in a few positions, I can play anywhere across the back. No matter where the gaffer wants me to play I’ll play for him and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in. I’m here for a month so who knows what could happen.’