BURTON Albion have signed goalkeeper Kieran O’Hara on a two-year deal after his contract ended at Manchester United.
The 24-year-old, who had been at Old Trafford since he was eight years old, impressed during a season-long loan spell with the Brewers last season, keeping 12 clean sheets in all competitions and establishing himself as the Brewers' first-choice.
O'Hara's form at the Pirelli Stadium earned him a call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad, with the keeper claiming his first two caps in games against Bulgaria and New Zealand.
Now O’Hara has put pen-to-paper on a permanent deal with Burton Albion and manager Jake Buxton is delighted to have got his number one summer target.
Buxton said: “The first day I got the job, I got in touch with Kieran and his agent regarding him coming back, which at first seemed unrealistic.
“As things developed, Kieran’s desire to become a Burton Albion player became stronger and stronger and we’re delighted to get our number one target.
Buxton believes that it is compliment to the club that a player of O’Hara’s calibre wanted to join the Brewers on a permanent deal.
“We’ve signed not only a player from Manchester United, but he’s also a full international with Republic of Ireland,” said Buxton.
“The goalkeeping department, as with the rest of the squad, is now very competitive and it hots up the competition for starting places.”
O’Hara was full of praise for the club and is thrilled about being back at the Pirelli Stadium. He said: “After speaking to the manager I’m really excited to be coming back in and to a club that’s moving in the right direction.
“Last year was fantastic for me and the club gave me the opportunity to play lots of games to help me develop.
“Competition is really good for places and after being at Manchester United from such a young age, it’s something that I thrive on.
“I’m looking forward to the season ahead and will give everything for the fans and for my team.”