Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick joins Newcastle United

Jeff Hendrick has joined Newcastle United on a four year deal.

The Republic of Ireland international, who was named in new Republic of Ireland manager Stephen Kenny’s first Ireland squad on Monday arrives at St James’ Park after spending four years with Burnley.

The 28 year-old saw his contract expire at Turf Moor in June, meaning that he was left looking for another club.

Speaking after penning his deal with United, Hendrick spoke of his eagerness to get playing at St James’ Park.

"It's a massive club and playing over the years, going to the stadium, it's one of the best stadiums to play in, so I just want to get playing there,” Hendrick told NUFCTV.

"I've had over 100 games in the Premier League but I want to keep going and keep improving with a different team. It's going to be different for me, the demands with the bigger stadium, the crowd, how big the club is, so I've got to take that on and keep pushing myself and striving to get better.”

Newcastle head coach Steve Bruce has admitted that he’s been a fan of the ex-Derby County midfielder for a long time and is delighted to finally get his man.

"Jeff is someone I've admired for a long time. I watched him when he was at Derby, then he went to Burnley for a lot of money and couldn't afford him, so I missed out then,” Bruce explained to NUFCTV.

"He's an experienced international football who can play all across the midfield so we welcome him aboard. He'll be a big asset to us, on and off the pitch.

"He's a great pro, down to earth, and at the age of 28 it's a wonderful time to get somebody. It is the peak of his career - he's a really fit boy who has played 122 times in the Premier League for Burnley over the last four years, and I'm sure he'll be a great addition to the squad."

The next couple of weeks will be interesting for Hendrick as he’s expected to play for the Republic of Ireland under Stephen Kenny for the first time against Bulgaria on September 3^rd before making his premier league debut for his new team on September 12^thagainst West Ham at the London Stadium.