Peterborough United have completed the signing of young Aston Villa defender
Peterborough United have confirmed the arrival of Aston Villa centre-back Josh Feeney on a season-long loan.
The 21 year-old was widely tipped to be coming to the Weston Homes Stadium over the weekend as Posh attempt to solve the defensive issues that blighted the 4-0 League One defeat at Blackpool on Saturday.
He should be available to play in Tuesday’s League One home game against Stevenage.
Posh boss Luke Williams said: “Josh is a player who has already got plenty of EFL experience under his belt and we believe he will give us additional strength in our defensive options.
"He is a good size, likes defending, but also has that ability to play and we are looking forward to working with him."
Feeney added: "When I heard that Peterborough had expressed an interest, it was a move that really appealed because of the way that they play and I am really looking forward to being a part of it.
"I have played a decent number of games in the EFL now. When I first went out on loan, it did take a little while to adjust to the physicality because it is a lot different to Under 21s football, but I feel I am used to it now and I am looking forward to helping the group win matches and move up the table.
"I know a few of the lads in the squad already, I played with Carl Johnston and Chris Conn-Clarke at Fleetwood and there are a few other lads in the squad I know too, so it should help me settle quickly."
Feeney played 31 times on loan for League One rivals Huddersfield Town last season. He has previously spent time at Shrewsbury Town, also in League One.
Feeney has made eight EFL Trophy appearances for Villa including one this season, a 3-2 defeat Wigan Athletic.
Feeney moved from Fleetwood to Aston Villa in 2021. He has played for England at under 16, under 17 and under 18 level. He is just over 6ft 4in and one biography describes him as ‘a tough-tackling, ball-winning defender, but also one who is composed on the ball.’
Posh were seeking centre-back cover for long-term injury victim Sam Hughes. They have shipped seven goals in their first three League One games, the joint second worst record in the division.