Former Galway United winger Jay O'Shea joins promotion-chasing Sheffield United

Former Republic of Ireland under-21 international winger Jay O'Shea has joined League One leaders Sheffield United on loan from Chesterfield until the end of the English season.

The Dubliner, whose contract at Chesterfield also expires at the end of the season, joins fellow underage inernational Samir Carruthers in the winter arrivals queue at Bramall Lane where he'll hope to help guide the Blades back to England's second tier.

"Jay is someone we've monitored for quite a while now,” said Blades boss Chris Wilder.

“He is a very good footballer, capable of playing in several attacking positions.

"He plays centrally or in wide areas and we're confident he will create chances and score goals too.

“He gives us options and versatility and has been a standout performer when Chesterfield have enjoyed success."

O'Shea, who began his career in the League of Ireland with Bray Wanderers, has spent the past four years with the Spireites after being signed by former Sligo Rovers boss Paul Cook, making 197 appearances and scoring 40 goals.

The 28-year-old came through the youth ranks at St Joseph's Boys in South Dublin before signing for the Seagulls midway through the 2006 season.

He made the move west to Galway United the following year, spending two-and-a-half seasons with the Tribesmen before he joined ex-St Patrick's Athletic man Keith Fahey at Birmingham City.

O'Shea made his debut as a substitute in the Blues' Premier League bow against Manchester United at Old Trafford but would make just two further appearances for the club, both in the League Cup.

He spent time on loan with Middlesbrough, Stevenage and Port Vale before signing for MK Dons in the summer of 2011.

O'Shea joined Chesterfield on loan in late 2012 before making the move permanent the following January.