Barnsley have finally completed the signing of former Celtic and Sunderland midfielder Colin Healy. The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international has put pen to paper on an initial one-year deal.

Healy was released by Scottish club Livingston at the end of last season and the Tykes hope to have received clearance from the Scottish FA in time for him to be included in Andy Ritchie's squad for Saturday's match at Colchester.

Ritchie had hoped to finalise the deal last week, but his new signing only completed his medical at Oakwell on Monday afternoon.

Healy, who has not featured on the international scene in almost three years, has impressed Ritchie and his coaching staff while on trial this summer as he battles back from two broken legs in a bid to rekindle his career.