Aston Villa announced on Monday that midfielder Conor Hourihane has joined Sheffield United on loan. 

And, as to be expected, a number of Villa supporters have been reacting to the news on social media.

Hourihane, who joined Villa back in 2017 from Barnsley for £3.15m, has signed for the Blades on a season-long loan.

He’s out of contract at Villa Park next summer, so may well have played his last game for Villa in the club’s 6-0 win over Barrow earlier in the month where he was captain.

The 30-year-old has made a total of 151 appearances for Villa during his time in the Midlands, scoring 29 times and registering 23 assists.

Villa are yet to add to their central midfield ranks this summer, so Hourihane’s departure leaves Dean Smith with one less option in the middle of the park.

Villa fans react

Villa shared the news regarding Hourihane on their official Twitter page. This is what these supporters had to say in reply, with one labelling it as a ‘dreadful decision’.

“A sad day. Classy player, appears to be an even better man. One of a few heroes in the club’s recent history. Wish him nothing but the absolute best”

Credit: @JBayliss94

Noooooo :( But GL @ConorHourihane you're actually amazing

Credit: @AVFCJJC

“Dreadful decision”

Credit: @JayK0165

“Big mistake”

Credit: @NooneAVFC

“can't believe he has gone before Nakamba I honestly can't understand how Dean put him ahead of Conor”

Credit: @BOOMBEEF

“This man deserved a better send off than this tweet.”

Credit: @MarkPatton7

In other news: Many AVFC fans react to Curtis Jones latest.