There has been some movement on the Ireland transfer front this week, with Matt Doherty joining a new club after his contract at Wolves expired earlier this summer.

It was announced on Monday that the Dubliner has joined Sheffield United on a one-year deal, with the option of a further season. Speaking after the move was confirmed, Doherty told the club website Premier League promotion would be the aim during the upcoming campaign:

I spoke to the manager and had a walk round the stadium. Obviously I’ve played there (Bramall Lane) many times before so I know what the atmosphere can be and the manager convinced me with his vision of the team and the club.

I’m backing the manager to get the club back into the Premier League and I’m guessing that is the goal for everyone at the end of the day.

Manager Chris Wilder also spoke highly of the player and what he will bring to the group, but it seems that opinion is split among the Sheffield United fanbase over the signing.

Matt Doherty signing met with mixed Sheffield United reaction

As a free agent with a huge amount of Premier League and international experience, you may have expected that fans of a club that finished 13th in the Championship last season would welcome a player of Matt Doherty’s calibre.

However, the reaction to the signing online seems to be largely negative. Quite a few Blades fans responded to the news in a less than enthusiastic fashion.

Matt Doherty’s age seemed to be the main concern among Sheffield United supporters, with the defender having turned 34 back in January. Still, it seems like an overreaction to a free transfer on a short-term deal.

In fairness, quite a few fans of the club were quick to call out the negativity around the move.

Recommended

 

 

 

 

Matt Doherty aiming to rediscover form next season

Having made over 40 appearances in the Premier League over the last two seasons, you would certainly assume that Matt Doherty still has quite a bit to offer at Championship level.

Sheffield United are a club with high expectations despite an underwhelming campaign last time out and will be hoping to be in the promotion mix next season.

Doherty will also no doubt look to play his way back into Ireland contention, having missed out on the squad on a number of occasions in recent times. Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side will kick off their UEFA Nations League campaign in September.