Posh announce new centre-back

Peterborough United have bolstered their defensive ranks by signing Irish centre-back Tom O’Connor from Wrexham on loan.

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Who is he?

The 26-year-old has been at Wrexham since they were in the National League, and has enjoyed back-to-back-to-back promotions with Phil Parkinson’s side, making nearly 100 appearances with 31 League One games last season. 

A product of Southampton’s academy, O’Connor has represented Ireland at U18 and U21 level. 

He is described as a strong, athletic and focused defender. 

Where he fits in 

O’Connor is 6ft 1in and left-footed, bringing great balance to Posh’s backline. He can play out from the back, something Posh are missing from their current defenders bar George Nevett. 

He is a confident, versatile player able to fit in as a centre back, left back and defensive midfielder, a role Archie Collins currently fills.

His best attribute is playing accurate through balls to release a counter-attack or to start an attacking move. 

O’Connor is not dominant in the air so would ideally be paired with Hughes or Okagbue. Tom was team mates with Sam Hughes in the Burton squad during the 21/22 season, where he played as a defensive midfielder. 

Thomas is also not afraid to have a shot giving us another option when Posh are in full attacking flow. 

The verdict

Any defensive arrival is good news for a team yet to keep a clean sheet this season. His experience in Leagues One and Two is very welcome, and clearly an upgrade on Oscar Wallin and Nevett. 

He could potentially team up with right-footer Sam Hughes, who he is familiar with, or Tom Lees in a new look Posh defence with Wallin out for personal reasons. It would also allow young Nevett to drop down to the bench or potentially head out on loan.

Signing Thomas shows real ambition to improve our ability to play from the back, which was integral to our success in the 23/24 season and has been sorely lacking since Ronnie Edwards’ departure.