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Irish defender Enda Stevens has joined newly promoted Championship side Sheffield United.
Stevens enjoyed an excellent year in League Two for Portsmouth – who also won promotion – and made the League Two team of the season.
Stevens, who played for St Patrick’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers, revealed his delight in an interview with the Blades’ official website.
“I’m delighted the paperwork has been done early,” he told sufc.co.uk. “It gives me the chance to settle in and concentrate on my football as soon as we report back for pre-season training.
“I enjoyed working under the gaffer for a short spell at Northampton and how he plays the game is similar to the approach at Portsmouth so hopefully it will be a smooth transition.”
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder explained his decision to sign the Irish defender, and also revealed that Stephens has international aspirations.
“We had Enda at Northampton on loan and it was clear he needed to play regular football.” he said. “He’s done that over the last couple of years and picked up a few honours at Portsmouth.
“He is an attacking full-back and the way we play, the wide areas are important – Enda provides us with extra options. He is a good age and has designs to play international football.”
Stevens has some way to go to be considered for the Republic of Ireland squad, but an impressive run in the Championship with the Blades would be a good start.
