Ireland under-18 defender Ciaran Brennan signs first professional deal with Sheffield Wednesday

Republic of Ireland under-18 defender Ciaran Brennan has signed his first professional contract with Sheffield Wednesday.

The 18-year-old has been on the books at Hillsborough for the past five years and is equally adept at centre-half, his preferred position, and right back.

The English-born defender is vice-captain of the Owls' under-18 side, where former Malahide United and Shamrock Rovers midfielder Conor Grant also features.

“This is the proudest day of my life,” Brennan told Wednesday's official website.

“It’s one of the things you dream about becoming a professional footballer. It’s a proud day for myself and my family.

“I’ve always been very competitive and even from early at school, I’ve wanted to be the one to achieve the best things.

“On decision day for contracts, my parents waited in the car park and when I came out and said I did it, it was an emotional and proud moment.

“It’s at that moment you realise how proud they are of you so I was buzzing for them as well as me.

“I’ve always been confident, always believed that if I was given a chance to train and play, I could impress those watching.

“From school, to Sunday league, to development, to academy level and then through the age groups, I’ve tried so hard to get to this point.”



Brennan – not to be confused with Waterford's 16-year-old striker of the same name who has represented Ireland up to under-17 level – qualifies for Ireland through his grandparents.

He added: “I’ve enjoyed playing for the Republic of Ireland a number of times. We went away on a tournament to Spain, the Under-18s, and that was another proud moment.

“My grandparents are huge Ireland fans and they were so proud and to have my family fly out to the games was amazing.

“It was a huge honour to play for your country and now I can’t wait to continue this journey with Wednesday.”