In a brilliant £0 transfer move, Plymouth Argyle took advantage of Ipswich Town’s contract choice.
The former Irish midfielder, who joined the team after an incredible stint at Oakwell, was instrumental in Aston Villa’s return to the Premier League after their relegation in 2016. But it’s easy to overlook the one contract choice that gave Hourihane the opportunity to succeed at Plymouth Argyle. The midfielder, who joined the team on a free transfer from Ipswich Town, became a vital member of Argyle before moving to South Yorkshire in 2014.
In 2010, Hourihane left Sunderland to join Ipswich. He did not, however, play a single game for the Tractor Boys, who placed 13th in the Championship. Following a trial stay at Home Park, Hourihane would join Plymouth as Peter Reid’s sixth summer acquisition as they got ready for life in League Two following relegation. The decision was made to allow the midfield player to depart on a free transfer at the end of the 2010–11 season. Hourihane went on to play 142 games for Argyle, helping the team secure safety in their first two seasons in the fourth division before moving up to 10th place in his last season.
After Darren Purse left to join Port Vale, Hourihane was appointed club captain in 2012. He continued to flourish at the club, contributing 23 assists and 29 goals before leaving for Barnsley at the end of the 2013–14 season. Despite Plymouth’s failure to get out of the fourth division during Hourihane’s tenure, the Irishman will always be cherished for his influence. Hourihane made the transition to League One and the Championship with ease, making 136 appearances for Barnsley while the Tykes vacillated between the second and third divisions of English football.
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