Celtic defender and Ireland youth international Lee O’Connor is rejoining Tranmere Rovers on a season-long loan.
O’Connor, who featured for the Bhoys in pre-season, spent last season with The Super Whites, impressing supporters with his versatility and defensive nous.
Both clubs announced the move on Twitter within the last hour.
A former Manchester United youth prospect, O’Connor would’ve hoped he’d done enough to convince Postecoglou of his first-team potential. However, another foray in League Two is the defender’s next move.
Celtic have been impressed by Anthony Ralston’s resurgence, while Croatia international Josip Juranovic joined the club from Legia Warsaw. With 10 caps for his national team, Juranovic likely represents the immediate future of the right-back position at the club.
O’Connor, who can play anywhere across the defence, and deep in midfield, made 42 total appearances for Tranmere Rovers in 20-21 [Transfermarkt]. The versatile Irishman will be paramount to the Birkenhead club’s promotion push from League Two.
A return to Tranmere Rovers probably best course of action for Celtic defender Lee O’Connor
From Lee O’Connor’s perspective, you’d imagine this wasn’t a tough choice to make. It’s a chance for more game-time, experience and learning under a decent coach in Micky Mellon.
Mellon rejoined the Super Whites himself this summer, after spending a year at Dundee United.
O’Connor will be joined by another Celtic youngster. Ross Doohan, a favourite of Mellon’s from his time at Tannadice, will also spend this season at Prenton Park.
Helping a club that’s given him two chances to shine reach at least the play-offs? It surely sounds good to the former Manchester United youngster. And while he hasn’t kicked on as he hoped at Celtic, there’s still plenty of time for him.
Ralston is a key example of how patience and hard work can pay off, after all.
Read more: Hartson’s message for departing Celtic striker
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