Healy signs for Barnsley

Koen Freriks

3 augustus 2006, 13:38

Republic of Ireland midfielder Colin Healy has secured a move to Coca-Cola Championship newcomers Barnsley ahead of the start of the season this weekend.

Healy spent more than two years out of the game after suffering two broken legs during his time at Sunderland.

The former Celtic star, who was on the verge of a place in the Irish squad at the 2002 World Cup finals, returned to Scotland last season to join Livingston, playing nine times for the Lions.

Following Livi's relegation from the Scottish Premier League, the 26-year-old Ballincollig native was on the move again, with Ipswich, Leicester City and Stoke City all showing an interest.

But it is Championship new-boys Barnsley who have offered him a contract, and Healy's one-year deal will begin with Saturday's league opener against Cardiff City at Oakwell.

Tykes manager Andy Ritchie said: "He will be in the squad for the Cardiff game although I expect him to be on the bench.

"He's an excellent player who has been unlucky with injuries but is back fit now. He has great vision and passing."