20 Facts About Rob Kiernan

Robert Samuel Kiernan was born on 13 January 1991 and is a former professional footballer who played as a defender.

Rob Kiernan ended his career with American club Orange County SC.

Rob Kiernan, who was born in Hertfordshire, played for the Republic of Ireland at youth levels up to and including under-21.

Rob Kiernan was born in Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire, and began his football career as a youngster with Watford.

Rob Kiernan was moved from his natural position of central midfielder to play centre-half, to take advantage of his height and physical presence, and captained the side.

Rob Kiernan's performances drew praise from his then coach Mark Warburton.

Later that summer, Rob Kiernan was called up by the Ireland under-19 team for a four-nation tournament, but he had to withdraw after tearing his right thigh muscle.

When Brendan Rodgers was appointed Watford manager in November 2008, Rob Kiernan began to take part in some first-team training sessions.

Rob Kiernan joined Kilmarnock on the same day as Watford teammate Scott Severin, and was given the number 29 shirt.

Rob Kiernan signed for Premier League club Wigan Athletic, In March 2012, having failed to feature in Wigan's first team, Kiernan joined League Two Accrington Stanley on loan for the remainder of the season, but ankle ligament damage cut the loan spell to just three matches.

Rob Kiernan returned to match fitness with the help of a month's loan at Burton Albion, of League Two, in the early part of the following season, and in November moved on to League One Brentford on loan until January 2013.

Rob Kiernan then renewed his loan deal on 11 January 2013.

On 12 October 2013, Rob Kiernan joined League Two side Southend United on a three-month loan deal he was recalled on 29 December, as cover after Thomas Rogne was injured on Boxing Day.

Rob Kiernan went on to form a partnership at centre-half with Jonathan Spector, and then played alongside Michael Morrison after the latter's return from injury.

On 19 July 2016, Rob Kiernan extended his contract with Rangers for another year, until 2018.

Rob Kiernan returned to English football in 2017, signing a three-year contract with League One club Southend United on 3 August for an undisclosed fee.

On 7 February 2020, Rob Kiernan joined USA club Orange County SC.

Rob Kiernan made 47 appearances and scored two goals before retiring from football in April 2023, due to a hip injury.

Rob Kiernan has captained the Republic of Ireland national football team at age-group levels.

Rob Kiernan qualified to play for Ireland as his father was born in County Wexford.