Carrick Rangers secure signing of former Manchester United and American international defender
Carrick Rangers have secured the signing of former Manchester United and American international defender Matthew Olosunde.
Olosunde came through the academy ranks at Old Trafford after joining from New York Red Bulls and while he didn’t make a senior appearance, the right-back travelled as part of the squad for Premier League matches against Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in 2017.
After departing United, Olosunde joined Rotherham United, playing 64 matches across League One and the Championship, and earned a move to Preston North End where his involvement was limited due to injuries.
Most recently at Welsh champions The New Saints, Olosunde, who made his international debut against Bolivia in May 2018, is now taking a first step into the Irish League with Carrick.
Olosunde’s arrival deepens the Co Antrim club’s American connection – their owner, Michael Smith, is from the United States, while Carrick have a growing fanbase across the Atlantic.
“I’m delighted to announce the signing of Matthew Olosunde to Carrick Rangers,” said Stephen Baxter. “Matthew is a player that we’ve been fortunate to have been connected to via our contacts in America, and having come in on trial and impressed us, we’re glad to get this deal over the line.
“He first came across from America at the age of 16 and has spent time at several Football League clubs, including initially at Manchester United, but in recent seasons has had limited game time so is very keen to get out there now and play.
“We’re looking forward to seeing Matthew settle in and establish himself at Carrick Rangers.”
Olosunde is eligible to make his Carrick debut in Saturday’s Irish Cup clash against Queen’s University and is excited to get started at his new home.
“This is a really good opportunity for me to get playing football at a good level and at a club with good values behind it, so I’m excited to get started,” he said. "I'm a full-back by trade and like to get up and down the wing, use my pace and carry the ball forward.
"I’m aiming to get back to consistently playing again and getting back to enjoying it, doing what I love.”