Northampton sign Irish midfielder Murray

Northampton boss Colin Calderwood has completed the signing of Irish utility player Fred Murray from League Two rivals Cambridge.

The 22-year-old from Clonmel turned down the offer of a new contract at the Abbey Stadium to sign a three-year deal with the Cobblers, who must compensate United as Murray is under 24.

Calderwood was pleased to capture the versatile Irishman, who can play at left-back, in central defence or midfield.

He said: “Fred is a player I have long admired. I think he will be a good addition to the squad. He is a fit boy with a very good left foot and he will bring some balance to the centre of our defence.

“He will increase competition to three or four places in the team and I think he will be a benefit to us, not just this season but in the years ahead.”

Murray started his career at Blackburn before moving to Cambridge in March 2002 after a successful loan spell. He made more than 100 appearances for the U's in just over two years with the club.