Monday, September 26, 2011

Shane Duffy extends loan spell


Scunthorpe United have extended the loan stay of Ireland U21 international Shane Duffy.

The Derry born centre-half has impressed during his month at Glanford Park and the Iron were keen to extend the deal.

Saturday's 2-1 victory over Yeovil Town was the 19-year-old's fourth appearance for United and Scunthorpe boss alan Knill has persuaded Premier League side Everton to allow him to remain on a month by month basis.

"I've spoken to Shane and he is benefiting from playing in someone's first team," said the Iron boss.

"It's better he plays in a competitive team that is playing quite well rather than the reserves.

"That's what they sent him to us for, to learn, and that's what he's doing. And I have to say, I think he's getting better.

"The thing I like most about him is when the ball comes into the box, he really wants to head it – before anybody else. He's a proper centre-half."

Both Duffy and fellow Iron Irish international Niall Canavan have been called up into the latest Ireland U21 squad.

The pair have been selected for the forthcoming UEFA 2013 European Championship Qualifier versus Liechtenstein which will take place on Tuesday, October 11.

Canavan is currently out of action with an ankle injury but, should he be fit, he will join up with the squad alongside Duffy the day after Scunthorpe's home clash with Leyton Orient.

The pair would then return to training ready for the away game at Brentford on Saturday, October 15.