Town are close to signing Manchester United central defender Paul McShane on a season-long loan. The 20-year-old Irishman faced the Blues twice last season while on a similar spell with Brighton and Hove Albion.

Born in County Wicklow, McShane played for local sides Greystones and St Joseph's Boys before signing for Manchester United's academy in 2002. McShane was a member of the sides which won the FA Youth Cup in 2003 and the Barclays Premiership Reserve League (North) in 2003/04.

The tough-tackler spent time on loan at Walsall the same season (three starts, one sub appearance, one goal) and also picked up Republic of Ireland U19 caps.

The 5ft 11in tall defender joined Brighton on loan for the whole of last season and gained legend status in Sussex by scoring the 79th minute decider in October's derby victory at Crystal Palace's Selhurst Park.

Despite Brighton's relegation, copper-topped McShane was a big success, carrying off both the official and fans' player of the year awards, making 40 starts and scoring four goals for the Seagulls, in addition to accruing a massive 11 bookings.

Brighton's poet in residence and PA man Attila the Stockbroker told TWTD that McShane was very impressive at the Withdean: “He is superb. I'm sure that if he was three inches taller he'd have played for Ireland already. He was outstanding for us in a team that was forever battling and will do a great job for you.”

Last week McShane scored for Manchester United in a 1-1 friendly draw against former loan club Walsall, but is yet to make a full appearance for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

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