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Eunan O’Kane’s Championship experience is key for Leeds believes Neil Redfearn

Bournemouth's Eunan O'Kane in action with Everton's James McCarthy (Reuters)
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The Yorkshireman believes that the Irish international is a good signing from Leeds.

Bournemouth's Eunan O'Kane in action with Everton's James McCarthyBournemouth’s Eunan O’Kane in action with Everton’s James McCarthy

It was a quiet day at Leeds United on deadline day yesterday with the club failing to bring in a striker, despite it being their reported number one priority.

One position they did not need to strengthen, by popular consensus, was the centre of midfield – but they did just that.

Bournemouth's Eunan O'Kane in action with Manchester City's Willy CaballeroBournemouth’s Eunan O’Kane in action with Manchester City’s Willy Caballero

Eunan O’Kane arrived from Bournemouth. The Republic of Ireland international has arrived on a permanent deal. Leeds already have the likes of Liam Bridcutt, Alex Mowatt, Matt Grimes, Toumani Diagouraga and Luke Murphy in the position – as well as youngsters Kalvin Phillips and Ronaldo Vieira.

But former Leeds manager Neil Redfearn thinks it is a good move.

Leeds United's Toumani Diagouraga comes on as a substituteLeeds United’s Toumani Diagouraga comes on as a substitute

Speaking to TV Yorkshire he had this to say about the transfer:

“He’s an experienced player. Mid-20s, international footballer, played at this level, played at the level above so he understands how it works.

“He’s a competitive player and he will want to get on the ball and play. He’ll make Leeds tick.

“He’ll come with experience at this level, knowing the division and knowing what’s needed. That’ a big thing.”

Former Leeds United manager Neil RedfearnFormer Leeds United manager Neil Redfearn

The Championship experience is certainly something that Leeds could need in midfield. O’Kane was promoted to the Premier League with Bournemouth.

Leeds boss Garry Monk is clearly not a big fan of Murphy and Diagouraga whilst Mowatt has been operating more as a wide-man this season. Phillips and Vieira are still young and therefore O’Kane does look like a good signature.

Hopefully he can bring some success to the club going forward.