Why re-signing Stefan O’ Connor is a good move for Newcastle United
A report in the Chronicle Live suggests that Newcastle United have re-signed youngster Stefan O’ Connor on a short-term contract.
The former Arsenal lad was released by the Magpies in the summer despite playing a number of matches for Newcastle’s U23 side last season. He has since suffered a major ACL injury and as a result, no clubs bought him.
The defender played a total of 31 matches for the Newcastle U23 side over the past two seasons and made an impact for the team. After playing these matches and training with the first team, it did look odd for Newcastle to release him.
His fitness is a concern but Chronicle Live claims that Newcastle are looking after him as he is in the process of recovering. Once he is fit, he must grab the chance and push himself into the starting line-up.
The 6ft 1in defender can play at right-back and in the midfield, making his versatility an advantage.
Newcastle have been unlucky with injuries to their defensive unit and O’ Connor could be added to the first-team to fix their issues at the back temporarily. The 22-year-old can offer a lot once he regains fitness.
Furthermore, the youngster certainly has the potential to break into the senior team. It remains to be seen as to when he returns to action but should he recover on time, the Englishman must work hard to earn the trust of his manager.
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Verdict
The decision to re-sign Stefan O’ Connor just after five months of releasing him seems strange but it could prove to be the right move.