THE SKY Blues have confirmed the signing of midfielder Chris McCann on loan until January before he begins a new chapter in his career over in America.
The 29-year-old signed for Atlanta United FC for their inaugural season in Major League Soccer (MLS) next year after being released by Championship side Wigan Athletic last month.
But the new MLS campaign does not get underway until January and McCann has been out on loan to the Sky Blues until December 31 to maintain his fitness and match sharpness while helping Tony Mowbray’s side achieve their League One promotion ambitions.
“I had a couple of options to go elsewhere but when I spoke to the gaffer he was full of confidence about what he wants to achieve here this season,” said McCann.
“When I met him and heard what he had to say, the way he speaks and his ideas about the way he wants his team to play, it breeds confidence into players.
“The Ricoh is a fantastic stadium. It’s been a while since I have played there but I’m looking forward to my first game.”
McCann, who has played left midfield and left-back during his career, was spotted at several pre-season matches and has been training with the Sky Blues first team for several months.
But he will miss the opening three games of the League One campaign after being sent off for Wigan against Barnsley on the final day of last season.
Dublin-born McCann progressed through the Burnley youth system before going on to make his debut against the Sky Blues back in August 2005.
He went on to make 269 appearances for Burnley, which included one season in the Premier League, before moving to Wigan on a free transfer in June 2013, where he was reunited with former Burnley boss Owen Coyle.
McCann was a first team regular with the Lactics where he scored four goals in 40 appearances last season as the Lactics won automatic promotion back to the Championship.
“Chris is a player who has played most of his football at a higher level and stands out in League One,” said Mowbray. “I’ve got no doubt he will add both quality and experience to our midfield.
“Chris was a crucial part of the Wigan side who won this league last year and I’ve already seen a good mix of ability and tenacity from him. I want a team who are prepared to play football but also dig in and compete. For that, you need players who can keep the ball in tight areas and play but also have a bit of bite.
“Chris has these attributes and I’m delighted to welcome another signing to the club ahead of next season.”
