Blackburn Rovers talent completes loan deal after signing new contract

Aodhan Doherty is relishing the opportunity to play regular first-team football after signing a new contract at Blackburn Rovers and joining Falkirk on loan.

The Northern Ireland youth international made his senior debut for Rovers last season, starting their 3-1 defeat at Swansea City in February.

Doherty has been training with Tony Mowbray's squad at the start of pre-season but a loan move was always likely to continue his development.

Having received lots of offers, he will play his football North of the border for Falkirk, who finished sixth in the Scottish Premiership table last season.

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Doherty has also been rewarded for his progress with a new contract; Rovers have yet again not disclosed the length of his new terms.

The 20-year-old, who signed from Linfield two years ago, is excited to have earned a new deal and embark on his first loan.

Speaking ahead of the move to Falkirk Stadium, Doherty said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to have signed a new contract with the club.

"It means a lot to my family and me because I’ve really enjoyed my time here and worked very hard towards a second contract, so I’m just very grateful for the trust and belief that the club has shown in me and I’m ready to keep pushing on.

“Having that experience of being with the first team last season helped me a lot in terms of what I need to do and how I need to play to stay at that level. Seeing how everyone operates pushes me on more and more to have a good career.

“I’m delighted to now be joining Falkirk on loan. The main thing for me now is getting first team exposure and playing plenty of games in the SPL will really benefit me, so I’m just buzzing to get the loan done and excited for the season ahead.”