Brentford swoop for defender O’Connell

Brentford have signed Blackburn defender Jack O’Connell for an undisclosed fee.

The 20-year-old, who can play left-back or centre-back, has signed a three-and-a-half year deal at Griffin Park.

O’Connell spent last season on loan at Rochdale, helping them win promotion from League Two, and returned there for the first half of this campaign.

He made one appearance for Blackburn, in a Capital One Cup tie against Scunthorpe United, and has captained England Under-19s.

Bees boss Mark Warburton said: “Jack is a player who has significant development potential left in him.

“He fits the profile of what we look for when bringing a young player in to the club.

“He will benefit enormously from working and playing with our senior professionals.

“Jack is a player that will add value for us on and off the pitch.”