Swansea boost promotion chances with Hourihane addition

Premier League hopefuls Swansea have made the biggest splash of the Championship’s January transfer window yet, adding highly-rated Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland midfielder, Conor Hourihane, on loan until the end of the season.

29-year-old Hourihane followed up his integral eight goals and 11 assists in Aston Villa’s 2018/19 promotion campaign with three goals and five assists in an impressive debut Premier League season, but has only made four league appearances in 2020/21.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder caught the eye with his impressive set-piece delivery from a wand of a left foot, and formed an integral trio with Jack Grealish and John McGinn as Villa narrowly avoided relegation.

However, Hourihane has seen his minutes limited due to the arrival of Ross Barkley, and Villa manager Dean Smith settling on a 4-2-3-1 where the Irishman doesn’t feature, although Smith has said the loan will only last until the end of the season as Hourihane remains in his plans.

Swansea currently sit second in the Championship table, four points behind leaders Norwich, competing well in a promotion battle where many expected Bournemouth and Watford to go straight back up with Norwich.