The Imps have announced that JJ McKiernan will join Burton Albion on loan until the end of the season.
As reported yesterday, the skilful midfielder will remain in League One for the rest of the season, but will appear in the yellow of Gary Bowyer’s Brewers.
The 22-year-old signed with the Imps in the summer, making the step up after an impressive campaign with Morecambe in Sky Bet League Two. He has made 17 appearances and scored his first goal for the Imps in the 5-0 win over Manchester City U21 in the Vertu Trophy.
In those appearances, he has reminded me a little of a young Peter Gain, and there’s no doubt this exit is purely tctical to get him some minutes before he returns to impact the club’s first team next time out, something confirmed by Jez George.
“JJ needs football in the second half of the season as his game time has become increasingly limited with us, especially on the back of an injury in the second half of last season.
“We wanted JJ to have a loan in League One as this is his first season at this level, so he will benefit from playing at this level. Gary is an experienced coach, with a background in player development, so he is in good hands.
“This is an excellent opportunity for JJ. He is a talented young player, on a long contract with us, so the purpose of this loan is to help him return in the summer more prepared for the demands of League One football.”
Career So Far
JJ began his youth career at Andover Town before joining Watford’s academy in 2018. He signed his first professional contract with Watford in 2021 and gained experience through loan spells at Bohemians in Ireland, where he made a brief appearance, and Eastleigh in the National League, featuring in 41 matches and scoring four goals.
After leaving Watford, he joined Morecambe in League Two for the 2023–2024 season, where he impressed with seven goals in 28 appearances, including a memorable hat-trick against Colchester United. His strong performances earned him a move to Sincil Bank on a four-year contract in July 2024. Somewhat ironically, he debuted for the club in a victory against Burton Albion on the opening day of the season.
Internationally, McKiernan chose to represent Northern Ireland, thanks to his eligibility through paternal grandparents. He made his debut for the U21 national team in 2020 and has since earned 11 caps, scoring once.
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