Hogg tracked O'Brien-Whitmarsh for 'months' before finally securing deal
New Cobblers midfielder Joe O’Brien-Whitmarsh had been on Chris Hogg’s radar for ‘months’ before a deal was finally done earlier this week.
The 21-year-old Irishman, who came through Cork City’s academy, signed a three-year deal with Northampton on Monday, joining from Southampton for an undisclosed fee.
“He was at the game on Saturday so he saw us in the flesh and he was excited to come and join us,” said Hogg. “It’s another good one for the club with the length of the contract and some of the qualities he’ll bring.
“He’s a technical footballer and he’ll help us play more like how we want to play and have a little bit of consistency. He’s got to fight and earn his position in the team but he’s more than willing and able to do that.”
Asked how the deal came about, Hogg added: “He’s someone I’ve been aware of for many months. He was put to me a couple of times so I’ve kept track of him and I was always aware of what he would bring.
“The possibility of him coming here increased the more the summer went on. I know a few people at Southampton, as does Colin (Calderwood), and people who have worked with him speak very highly him, so we’re delighted to get it done.”
O’Brien-Whitmarsh could play either as one of the two central midfielders or in a more attacking role.
“I see him as a central player,” continued Hogg. “He can play six and he can play 10 and we’ll put him where his attributes will be best for the team and see what connections we can get with the players around. He’ll provide competition in the middle of the pitch with the central players we’ve already got there.”