Ex-Arsenal midfielder is eighth summer signing
Reds are delighted to confirm the signing of midfielder Conor Henderson on a one-year contract.
The 22-year-old began his career in Arsenal’s Academy and broke into the first team in 2011 when he played in an FA Cup replay win over Leyton Orient.
A knee injury sidelined him for six months but after making a successful recovery he went on loan to Coventry City in 2012 and played two League One games for the Sky Blues.
He was released by Arsenal in 2013 and after impressing in a couple of reserve team games he was signed by Premier League Hull City in September 2013 and made his Tigers’ debut in a League Cup tie against Huddersfield Town. Towards the end of last season he played three games on loan with Stevenage in League One.
Manager John Gregory said: “We’re delighted to get Conor on board. He was highly regarded at Arsenal but then suffered a bad knee injury which affected his progress. I have spoken to (Hull manager) Steve Bruce at length about him and he speaks very highly of Conor.
“He is coming down a level to play for us but he sees it as a move which will progress his career in the right direction. He’s very skilful, passes it and keeps possession well and is a threat in the box too.
“He’s had a very good football education but like a lot of young English players he struggled to get opportunities at the top clubs. He’s going to find out what League One is all about but this is a great opportunity for him to progress his career again.”
Conor, has played for Ireland under-21s after switching allegiance from England, and is pleased to have joined the club.
He said: “The manager sold Crawley Town to me very well. He wants to play good football and that is the way I like to play. It’s a new squad he’s putting together but a very exciting one and I am looking forward to playing my part.
“I had experience of League One last season on loan so I know a bit of what to expect but it’s a fresh start and new challenge for me.”
Check back soon for a video interview with our eighth new signing of the summer.
