QPR sign up keeper Kenny on three-year deal

CHAMPIONSHIP outfit QPR have signed goalkeeper Paddy Kenny on a three-year deal from Sheffield United.

The 32-year-old Republic of Ireland international will be reunited with former Blades manager Neil Warnock for the third time after the Londoners lodged a successful €900,000 bid.

Warnock said: “Paddy’s a very good goalkeeper. I rate him very, very highly and genuinely believe he’s one of the best around at this level.

“Yes, he’s made mistakes in his life in the past, but he’s a straight-forward guy and I think this is the right time for him and his family to leave Sheffield and focus on the next chapter of his career. I know he’ll relish the challenge of helping us achieve our goals.”

Kenny returned to action for the Blades from a nine-month suspension for testing positive for the banned substance ephedrine in May 2009.

He was cleared of cheating after claiming he had taken tablets bought at a chemist to help clear a chest infection, but still missed all but the final two matches for the south Yorkshire side last season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have announced that talented young goalkeeper Sean McDermott has signed his first professional contract with the club.

The 17-year-old was a regular in the U18 team last season, making 12 appearances to help the team finish top of the FA Academy League U18 table.

Although born in Kristiansand in Norway McDermott is of Irish descent, his father Terrence coming from Donegal.

McDermott is described on Arsenal’s website as ‘‘a strong, steady goalkeeper with good reflexes and a fine presence between the posts’’.

He came to prominence when he was selected among an elite group of 21 Norwegian youngsters to join the Solskjaer Academy, run by former Norway and Manchester United star Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

It was perhaps inevitable that United would show an interest in the youngster but after a trial with the Red Devils and Arsenal, McDermott opted for the Gunners last July.

‘‘It just felt right as soon as I got as I got to the training ground,’’ he said in a recent interview.

‘‘The coaches and players made me feel very welcome and at home and the facilities were fantastic.

“I had been on trial with Man United but I just felt more comfortable at Arsenal and I know it was the right choice.’’