Popular former Sheffield United star agrees deal for permanent move
A former Sheffield United player has agreed a permanent contract after his release this summer
Popular former Sheffield United midfielder Ben Osborn has rejoined Stockport County following his release by Derby County this summer.
The 31-year-old spent last season on loan at Edgeley Park, playing alongside former Blades team mate Oliver Norwood, helping Stockport push for promotion only to lose in last season’s Play-Off Final to Bolton Wanderers.
Osborn spent almost five years at United having moved in a £3m deal from Nottingham Forest, before leaving to join Derby in 2024 at the end of his Bramall Lane contract. He made 134 appearances scoring five goals.
Osborn was one of a number of players released by the Rams this summer and Stockport manager Jimmy McNulty pointed out all the factors that made him popular with Blades fans and players during his time in South Yorkshire.
"We’re delighted to have completed the signing and to welcome Ben back into the squad,” said McNulty. “He’s a really intelligent, highly competent footballer with a great blend of experience and character and those qualities will be a real asset both to the group as a whole and especially to our younger players.
“Ben can play in a multitude of positions and is a really selfless player – particularly impressive for someone who has operated at the highest level.
“Having already been here before, he knows the club well and has a genuine affection for it. He had other offers on the table but chose us, which only adds to the many positives he brings. We’re really pleased to get the deal done and to have him with us."
Sporting Director said a number of clubs in League One were interested in brining Osborn on board.
“We know there was strong interest from a number of clubs in our league, so we're especially pleased that he's chosen to return to us., he added: “That says a lot about his belief in the direction we're heading and the opportunities that lie ahead. We're delighted to have him back at County and look forward to seeing him make another big contribution this season."