Motherwell announce signing of defender Shane Blaney from Sligo Rovers

Motherwell have completed the signing of defender Shane Blaney from Sligo Rovers.

Blaney was part of the Sligo side that shocked the Fir Park outfit with a 3-0 aggregate win in the Europa Conference League qualifiers and netted the opening goal at the Showgrounds in the second leg.

The 23-year-old has now signed a two-and-a-half year deal at Fir Park.

“This is a really exciting move for me,” Blaney told Motherwell’s official website.

“I’ve loved my time at Sligo and want to continue to improve and add to my game here at Motherwell.

“There is a lot of really talented players in this squad already and I can’t wait to get going.”

Blaney began his career at Finn Harps and showed early promise, sealing a move to Doncaster Rovers in 2018 but after several loan spells he returned to Ireland to sign for Sligo last year.

Motherwell boss Steven Hammell believes the defender can push for a first team place and continue his development in the Premiership.

“Shane is someone who we have watched closely since that European tie where I felt he played very well in both legs,” he said.

“He has had an impressive season with Sligo and we think he can continue that upward trajectory with us at Fir Park. He will give us additional competition in defensive areas and will push the likes of Lamie, Solholm and Mugabi for a start.”