Sheffield Wednesday has signed Republic of Ireland international defender, Eddie Nolan, on loan until the end of the season from Preston North End.

The 6ft 1in defender has signed an emergency loan deal with the Owls until May 2, when Wednesday face Crystal Palace on the last day of the season.

Nolan, 21, was previously signed by Alan Irvine in 2008 when he was at Preston, initially on loan from Blackburn Rovers before making the move permanent for an undisclosed sum in January 2009. The Waterford-born player has represented the Republic of Ireland at every age group from under-16 to full international level and has also captained his nation's U19 and U21 sides.

Having secured three caps for the Republic's first team, Nolan is a versatile player, who has played in every position across Preston's back line. Having made 40 League appearances for the Lilywhites, he also appeared on loan for Hartlepool United and Stockport County prior to joining North End.

Owls boss, Irvine, said: "We have a tough battle ahead of us in order to stay in the Championship this year and Eddie Nolan is a very good defender who will bring a lot of quality and cover to our defensive unit. Every game coming up is a massive game and having the opportunity to bring in a player of Eddie's quality and versatility at this time is something that I feel can help us in the remaining matches.

"It is vital that we are strong defensively and Eddie will certainly add strength to that department between now and the end of the season so I am delighted to have secured his services."

Nolan will go straight into the squad for the Owls' home match against Ipswich Town on Saturday. He will wear squad number 32 and is entitled to play for Sheffield Wednesday at Preston North End on March 16.

This news was sent first to subscribers to the official Sheffield Wednesday SMS service. To find out more, click here