Ireland under-21 player of the year Lee O'Connor joins Tranmere Rovers on season-long loan from Celtic

Republic of Ireland international Lee O’Connor has joined English League Two side Tranmere Rovers on a season-long loan from Scottish champions Celtic.

Former Manchester United trainee O’Connor spent two months on loan with Partick Thistle last season before the season was cut short due to the covid-19 pandemic.

The Waterford native was recently named Republic of Ireland under-21 player of the year after impressing for Stephen Kenny’s side.

The left-back made his senior bow in a friendly win over New Zealand in November 2019, setting up a goal for Callum Robinson as Ireland came from behind to prevail 3-1.

“There is no secret we have needed a full back in the building,” Tranmere boss Mike Jackson told the club’s website.

“First of all, I would like to thank Celtic for allowing us to sign their player on loan and we are delighted to have him in.

“He is a young lad with an excellent pedigree, and we are looking forward to him. He has a lot of ability; he is good on the ball, he will fit into the group well. He fits the way we want to play.”

O’Connor expressed his delight about completing the loan move. The Waterford native told the club’s website:

“I am happy the move is now over the line. It is a massive football club, the conversations I have had with the Gaffer, the plans are very intriguing, and you know straight away how he wants to play.”

The full back is now looking forward to using his experiences of international football to help his new side for the season ahead.

“I spent a long time with Manchester United, so I know the North West well. I can’t wait for the league to start and hopefully I can help the Club achieve what they want to achieve.

I have learnt a lot from my time at Manchester United, Celtic and playing international football, and I am looking to use that experience to help me push on at Tranmere Rovers.”