Darragh signs four-year Boro deal
MIDDLESBROUGH have completed the signing of Darragh Lenihan on a free transfer, the defender signing a long-term contract with the club.
The Republic of Ireland international completes his move to Teesside after turning down a new deal at Blackburn this summer.
Centre-back Lenihan, 28, has signed a four-year contract at Middlesbrough which runs until the summer of 2026.
Boss Chris Wilder is a longtime admirer of Lenihan’s, having tried to sign him while in charge at Sheffield United, and believes he will bring much-needed leadership and character to the Boro squad.
Lenihan’s move to Boro was completed after he finished his international duties with Ireland last week as he arrived at Rockliffe to complete his medical and finalise the details of the transfer.
As well as Blackburn, he had plenty of other Championship interest but chose Boro as his next club and becomes the third summer signing for Wilder.
The Boro boss said: “I’ve been a huge admirer of Darragh for a long time, in terms of his qualities he brings as a player, as a person, as a competitor, as a warrior, and a leader of men.
“I’m putting a bit on him but I know he can handle it. I’m delighted to get him.”
Lenihan’s recent international involvement saw him earn his first cap for four years - that a reward for his fine form as captain of Tony Mowbray’s Blackburn.
He has been at Ewood Park since joining their academy in 2011 from Belvedere.
Lenihan made more than 200 appearances for the Lancashire outfit, his only other senior games coming during a loan spell with
Burton Albion in 2014.
With a wealth of Championship experience and leadership qualities, Wilder is hopeful the centre-back can help bolster his defensive options and help build the winning culture and mentality at the football club ahead of what he hopes will be a promotion-challenging season at the Riverside.