A January transfer is often an unwelcome blow for players. However, it can also be a positive opportunity and a new platform which several Irish players could certainly benefit from.
Despite the game's ever-increasing complexities, the wide-ranging array of aspects that influence a footballer's career, the fundamental fact remains that game-time is imperative and all five players listed require more of that precise commodity.
Alan Judge
The Dubliner was recently linked with a move to Ipswich. He has been restricted to substitute appearances for Brentford, coming off the bench in the last three games. Judge is also out of contract at the end of the year. However, the creative and versatile midfielder still has a lot to offer to a Championship club and would hugely benefit from a run of games, despite moving to a club in a relegation battle.
Scott Hogan
It has recently been confirmed that Tammy Abraham will not leave Aston Villa, meaning Scott Hogan's first-team opportunities will continue to be limited. The 26-year-old has made just six appearances this season and scored only seven goals since moving from Brentford in 2017.
A dry spell is a familiar but no less challenging period for any striker but the only way to break it is a continued run of games and Hogan is not likely to get that at Villa Park.
Ciaran Clark
At 29-years-old, it would be a shame for Clark to leave Premier League football but Rafael Benítez is evidently not a big fan and game-time is a necessity for any player hoping to make Mick McCarthy's squad. He is still a physical and determined defender who would certainly be in-demand in the Championship.
Kevin Long
The Cork man is 28 and currently in his ninth year at Burnley. In that time, he has been sent on loan to six different clubs. He has been limited to just five appearances so far this season but has demonstrated his ability in the past and could certainly prove an able partner for Shane Duffy should he build up some form with a series of starts. That seems like it will not be forthcoming under Sean Dyche.
Lee O'Connor
The Man United starlet has progressed well with the club and academy coach Nicky Butt is a fan, but now that the Waterford man is involved with the Irish senior squad he could certainly benefit from increased exposure to adult football and a loan deal would be a welcomed step towards securing that.
O'Connor is one of many young Irish prospects who could benefit from a loan spell. Brighton's Aaron Connolly has progressed well and was recently linked with a loan move to German side Hoffenheim. At Liverpool, Caoimhin Kelleher signed a new contract last summer and a stint in the lower leagues could aid his development, in the same way Man United's Kieran O'Hara has gone out to League Two side Macclesfield Town.
