O'Hanlon commits to United
Central defender Sean O'Hanlon has signed a deal today which keeps him at Brunton Park until the summer of 2015.
O'Hanlon, 30, teamed up with the squad for an extended trial period just before Christmas and very quickly caught the eye as he settled into the training regime.
An impressive showing in a behind-closed-doors reserve game against Rangers secured an initial half-season contract and O'Hanlon has since made 15 appearances, scoring his first goal for the club in the 2-0 home win over Brentford last month.
"This is an interesting one because of the situation we faced with Sean's current contract," managing director John Nixon explained.
"We were in a position, with him being on a short-term deal, where we either had to talk to him about staying with us or serve him with one month's notice that we wouldn't be taking things any further.
"Obviously he has played a big part in the positive results we have enjoyed since he joined the club and the intention was always to see if we could keep him here. We're now delighted to be able to announce that is indeed the case."
O'Hanlon started his career as a youngster at Everton but made a permanent switch to Swindon, following a successful loan spell, when he was released by the Toffees in 2004. He played over 100 games at the County Ground before making the short trip across country to join MK Dons in 2006.
A move to Hibernian followed five good years with the Dons and he teamed up with United in December having been made a free agent by the Edinburgh-based outfit.
"We know all about Sean and what he can do now," manager Greg Abbott said. "He has been excellent for us and we think he still has more to offer.
"He has that experience and knowledge of the game which is priceless, and the fans have taken to the way he does his business on the pitch.
"With a full pre-season under his belt I have no doubt we will see a very good player again when we get into the new campaign. He's really enjoyed himself here because things had gone a little bit wrong for him just before Christmas. He has taken the opportunity by the scruff of the neck and we're pleased that we've got this one done."
We'll have full reaction from Sean O'Hanlon later today.
