O’Toole loaned to Sheff Utd

John-Joe O’Toole has signed for Sheffield United on loan until the end of the season from Watford.

Blades manager Kevin Blackwell has been on the lookout for midfield reinforcements for the Championship run in which could see his side take a play-off place. The signing of O’Toole looks to have brought an end to his hunt.

O’Toole is still only 20 years of age but has appeared for Watford 66 times and scored 12 goals, eight of which have come this season, one of which was scored against Sheffield United.

Watford manager Brendan Rodgers had said in January that he did not want to sell O’Toole, despite the club’s financial predicament.

O’Toole heads to Yorkshire now though, after attracting attention from Championship high-fliers Wolves and Preston North End.

The Republic of Ireland U21 international is expected to make his debut against Birmingham City this Sunday as he is ineligible for Sheffield United’s FA Cup replay with Hull City this Thursday.

He will be linking up with former team-mates Darius Henderson and Leigh Bromby on his arrival at Bramall Lane.

The academy graduate made his debut at the beginning of the last campaign in the Carling Cup and went on to pick up the Young Player of the Year Award for 07/08.

The Irishman last started for Watford back in January against Scunthorpe in the FA Cup. His most recent appearance for the Golden Boys was as a substitute against Chelsea in the FA Cup fifth round.