Irish midfielders Kevin Kilbane, Keith Treacy and Keith Andrews have all switched clubs on the eve of the new English football season – and striker Shane Long could follow suit sooner rather than later.

Kilbane has signed for Derby County on loan. Treacy has moved to Burnley and Andrews has completed a deal to move to Ipswich Town.

Long, due to start the Championship season with Reading this weekend, has again been linked with West Ham, West Brom and Leicester City.

Veteran midfielder Kilbane has left Hull City for a six month loan deal with Championship rivals Derby.
“Kevin brings with him a wealth of experience, as well as the ability to play in a variety of positions,” said Derby boss Brian Clough.

“He is an international footballer, so first and foremost it is exciting for us to attract another player of that ilk to Derby County.

“We believe he will be a welcome addition to our squad and, given the type of character and player he is, we have no doubt he will do a good job for us.”

Andrews has also completed a loan deal, moving from Blackburn Rovers in the Premiership to Ipswich Town in the Championship on a season long deal.

Winger Treacy has made a permanent switch from relegated Preston to their Lancashire neighbors Burnley.