Glenn Whelan makes move to Hearts following release from Premier League Aston Villa

Republic of Ireland international Glenn Whelan has joined Scottish Premier League Hearts after his release from Aston Villa.

Whelan, a mainstay in the Villa side that gained promotion to the Premier League last term, joins the Edinburgh side on a one-year deal.

The Dubliner has 86 international appearances to his name for the Boys in Green, having made his debut in 2008 during a home defeat against Serbia at Croke Park.

Once of Manchester City, the 35-year-old made his name at Stoke City where he helped the Potters to Premier League promotion in 2008.

Speaking to his new club’s media team, the Irish international revealed his reasons on signing for the Tynecastle outfit.

“I’ve managed to train for the last couple of days with the lads, got the meet-and-greet out of the way. But I’m delighted to get everything sorted out now,” the holding midfielder said.

“Everywhere I’ve gone throughout my career I’ve always achieved what I’ve wanted to do so I’m not up here for a jolly up or a holiday.

“Once I knew Hearts were involved then It was something that I really had to think about.  

“The manager has been great; he’s given me a lot of time to think about things but for the last week or so I’ve been ready to go. 

“I came up and trained with the lads for a couple of days last week and I was really impressed,” the Dubliner added.  

“I’m up here now and I’m ready to dig in and get some results.

“The manager has spoken about trying to get into Europe and pushing on as high as we can. 

“I’m not just up here to enjoy myself, I’m here to achieve something. I’m looking to do that with Hearts, a massive club in Scotland.”

 

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