Both Daryl Horgan and Andy Boyle became eligible to play for Preston with the opening of the January transfer window. Neither were considered for the January 2nd game against Burton but Horgan went on to make his debut against Arsenal in the FA Cup at the weekend, coming off the bench with 10 minutes remaining.
Speaking to 2FM's Game On, Preston manager Simon Grayson said that both players have settled in well in Lancashire.
He also added that the signing of the duo was not viewed as a gamble.
Sometimes it’s a big of a risk when you’re taking players from the League of Ireland to the Championship because there is a bit of a gulf.
But these guys have done it in the Europa League, in the Champions League when they’ve played against top opposition.
We didn’t feel it was a risk at all to sign these players. We’re delighted to have got them and the biggest thing for me was their enthusiasm and desire to keep improving.
Grayson also explained why it may take centre-back Boyle a little bit longer than winger Horgan to make a breakthrough into the first team.
Daryl was involved in the squad at the weekend and Andy hasn’t been quite yet but sometimes it’s easier to incorporate an attacking player into your squad than a defender.
Defenders get punished very quickly if you’re not careful and Andy’s still learning how we work as a back three and as a back five.
As an attacking player there isn’t as much emphasis on when you make a mistake but I certainly see both players playing a big part in this football club, hence why they’re here.
Photo by David Maher/Sportsfile
