Conor Hourihane - thanks and farewell

[passitsideways]

I've always defended him. It's fair enough to suggest that he might not have the athleticism and/or defensive nous to protect the back 4 the way that's needed in the PL, but there were some who acted like he had literally nothing to his game outside of scoring the occasional goal and hitting a decent set piece. He struggled when Grealish was out, but I think it was just the general lack of somebody who could make themselves available for a pass further down the pitch - without a player like that, it resembled what it was like under Bruce, where a midfielder would usually receive the ball, look up, see no forward options, and then the only thing left to do would be to move it sideways or backwards or just punt it down the field.

[Matt C]

Watching it back (still nervous, like somehow the result might change) he was excellent at Wembley.

[kieron]

Another interesting article on Conor the pro:

https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/soccer/--928787.html

[West Derby Villan]

Another interesting article on Conor the pro:

https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/soccer/--928787.html

Great article, he does seem to be getting stronger on the ball and has been making a lot more tackles recently. He obviously takes his career very seriously and goes the extra nine yards to improve. This will ultimately benefits us. We know he has an awesome shot and his assists speak for themselves, he needs to improve the rest of his game and by the sound of it he is doing everything he can to do this

[OCD]

Sad to hear the attitude of young players. No wonder so few make it. I remember hearing Frank Lampard talking about when he was in the youth system, saying that he didn't stand out and had to work his arse off at his game to improve and always had one of the best work ethics.

[The Moose]

Hard work, a realisation that nobody gives you anything, and managers who believe in him. Great read, show the Premier League what you are about Conor.

[ChicagoLion]

Nice interview, his comments about younger players is alarming.
The difference between success and failure is so often about putting in that bit extra in all walks of life.

[Villafirst]

Connor playing for the ROI tonight against Denmark. One terrific free kick curled in nearly resulted in a goal. A bit sad that Glenn is also in the team - currently without a club....

[brontebilly]

Connor playing for the ROI tonight against Denmark. One terrific free kick curled in nearly resulted in a goal. A bit sad that Glenn is also in the team - currently without a club....

Thought Hourihane was out of his depth a bit last night. Early yellow didn't help matters for him but they kept finding space behind Whelan and himself in the second half. The likes of Eriksen and Delaney are top class players I guess.

Hourihane's set pieces were always dangerous but more presence required.

[ChicagoLion]

Connor playing for the ROI tonight against Denmark. One terrific free kick curled in nearly resulted in a goal. A bit sad that Glenn is also in the team - currently without a club....

Thought Hourihane was out of his depth a bit last night. Early yellow didn't help matters for him but they kept finding space behind Whelan and himself.

That was how it looked quite a bit last season with those 2 in midfield.

[Rudy65]

Another interesting article on Conor the pro:

https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/soccer/--928787.html

It really amazes me when the kids he talks about don’t put in the effort when they see the senior pro’s already doing it. Why would you not want to better yourself if you have some talent to begin with?

[Toronto Villa]

He’s really come on in leaps and bounds as a player. He may not be a starter best season but in certain situations he will be very effective and will always be someone we can depend on. Plus having a dead ball specialist is always an asset.

[kieron]

New contract for Conor:

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1149952022143279107

Aston Villa is delighted to announce Conor Hourihane has signed a contract extension ahead of the new Premier League season.

The 28-year-old was a crucial part of the side that secured promotion via the Play-Off Final in May, and agrees a fresh deal as we prepare to embark on a top-flight campaign.

Hourihane has completed a remarkable rise as a player from League Two to the Premier League in just five years – competing in every EFL division along the way.

Since joining in January 2017, the Irishman has made 111 Villa appearances and reaffirmed his status as a stellar creative force, scoring 21 goals and assisting 16 times.

On committing his future, he said: "I'm absolutely delighted. It's exciting times for the club with us moving into the Premier League.

"I've waited all my career for the opportunity to play at this level and the time has now arrived.

"I'm really looking forward to the season ahead. It's a big period for me personally as I've come all the way from League Two to reach the top.

"I'm glad to sign and look forward to being here for seasons ahead."

[kieron]

Interview:

[andyh]

I’m quite pleased that Hourihane has signed up.
I was not his biggest fan, but thought he stepped up massively in the last 15 games of the season and was very, very impressive.

I suspect he is signing up to being a permanent substitute though.