SHAMROCK ROVERS have had a busy final day of the transfer deadline with the sale of Enda Stevens followed by the siging of two experienced professionals.

Republic of Ireland under-21 international defender Stevens will join Aston Villa in January while former Dundee United star Jim Paterson and Tottenham midfielder Rohan Ricketts have joined Michael O'Neill's side.

The Hoops are delighted that Dublin Stevens will remain with the club for the rest of the season and the Europa League Group Stages.

Ricketts and Paterson have signed as free agents.

Midfielder Ricketts (28) previously had spells with Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Wolverhampton. Utility player Paterson (31) previously played for Dundee United, Motherwell and Plymouth Argyle. He has played left-back, left wing and as a striker in the past.

Rovers manager Michael O’Neill said: “We’re delighted to have added the two players to our squad, especially given the limited time period we had.

“Jim will add great experience having played over 300 games at SPL and Championship level, and can play in a number of positions.

“Rohan is a very exciting option and can add a little bit extra in the final third of the pitch. He has also played first team football at the highest level.”

Former UCD and St Patrick's Athletic defender Stevens is delighted with the opportunity he has been given with the English Premier League outfit and pleased that he will remain a Rovers player until the New Year.

He said: “I’m delighted that the two clubs have agreed terms and I would like to thank Alex McLeish for placing such faith in me.  I have really enjoyed my time at Shamrock Rovers, and with Europa League football along with the run in to the league campaign still ahead, I can’t wait to be part of that before I leave for Aston Villa.

“I want to thank the board for everything they have done for me, and the manager, Michael O'Neill, who has been a huge influence on my progress as a player. Shamrock Rovers is a great club and it has been fantastic to be part of such a successful period for the club. I hope we can repeat that before I finish at the end of the year.”

Hoops boss O’Neill added: “This is another mark of how this club is progressing and how well regarded our players are outside of Ireland. Enda deserves great credit for how he has improved his game and placed himself in a position that one of England's biggest clubs wanted to recruit him.

“I believe he will do very well, but the great news for us is that he will remain a Shamrock Rovers player until the end of this season.  We have a great squad of players and have a lot of hard work between now and the end of the season. Enda being part of that is important for him and the club.”