 In July 2011, he joined Premier League side Norwich City in a deal worth up to £3 million and went on to play 75 matches in the top tier for the "Canaries" before moving to Cardiff City three years later.He also represents Republic of Ireland at international level and to date has won 9 caps.Born in Blackburn, Lancashire, Pilkington spent time with the youth systems of Preston North End, Manchester United and hometown club Blackburn Rovers.