Peterborough United are expected to sign Aston Villa centre-back Josh Feeney on a loan deal. The 21-year-old defender will provide cover following a long-term injury to Sam Hughes, according to a report in the Peterborough Telegraph.
Darren Ferguson's side currently sit 17th in League One with three points from three games. Their defensive record is a concern, having conceded seven goals already this season. That's the second-worst tally in the division. The need for reinforcements was highlighted by a 4-0 defeat at Blackpool on Saturday.
Who is Josh Feeney?
Josh Feeney is a 21-year-old centre-back who stands just over 6 feet 4 inches tall. He moved from Fleetwood Town to Aston Villa in 2021 and has represented England at under-16, under-17, and under-18 levels. Feeney gained valuable experience last season with a loan spell at Huddersfield Town, where he made 31 appearances in League One. He also previously spent time on loan at another League One side, Shrewsbury Town. A club biography describes him as a tough-tackling, ball-winning defender who is also composed in possession. "I am a defender first and foremost - I don’t want to concede any goals," Feeney has said. "I am good with the ball."
Why do Peterborough United need him?
The primary reason for the move is a defensive injury crisis. Sam Hughes is sidelined with a long-term injury, leaving a gap in the squad. The team's early-season form has exposed this weakness. They have let in seven goals in their opening three league matches, a record better than only one other club in the league. This leaves them with a goal difference of minus five. The heavy loss at Bloomfield Road made the need for a new defender urgent. You can view the full extent of the squad's availability on our injuries page.
What experience does he bring?
Feeney brings a solid season of League One football from his time at Huddersfield. His physical presence and ball-playing style are seen as assets that fit Peterborough's approach. He also has experience in the EFL Trophy, having made eight appearances for Aston Villa's academy side in the competition. One of those appearances came this very season, in a 3-2 defeat to Wigan Athletic. This blend of youth team development and senior men's football is viewed as ideal for his next step.
What happens next for Peterborough?
The immediate focus shifts to integrating Feeney into the squad ahead of a busy period. Peterborough's next fixture is a home game against Stevenage on Tuesday, September 1st. Stevenage are currently 18th in the table, making it a key early-season encounter. The club will hope the new signing can help solidify a defence that has been too porous. With the team already four points behind early leaders Blackpool, addressing defensive issues is critical for any promotion aspirations. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on our standings and fixtures pages.
