They are continuously linked with signing the world’s best players but the mighty Manchester United’s latest signing is… a 35-year-old goalkeeper from Hemel Hempstead.
Lee Grant, who was born in the town in 1983, has achieved his dream in the twilight of his career and at a time when most players are thinking about what they will do when their playing career is over.
Grant, who has signed a two-year deal at Old Trafford, told the club’s official website, www.manutd.com , that he was still pinching himself.
He said “Moving to Manchester United has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. This was an opportunity that I couldn’t let pass and I’m thrilled to become a part of such a historic club.
”I’ve enjoyed every moment of my career so far and I’m now ready to continue learning and improving alongside some of the best players in the game. But at the same time, I intend to use my experience to help the team whenever possible.”
Grant has had to be patient in his career to date. After a spell as a youth-team goalkeeper at Watford, he made his senior debut with Derby County in the 2002/2003 season.
Representing England at various age groups, his career continued with loan spells and permanent moves to Burnley and back to Derby before he joined Premier League Stoke City as cover for the injured Jack Butland.
Ironically one of Grant’s early games for the Potters came at Old Trafford when he produced a man-of-the-match performance as Stoke held United to a 1-1 draw.
After the move was confirmed earlier this month, Grant admitted he couldn’t wait to get started.
He commented: “I want to say a huge thank you to those close to me who have supported me along my journey so far. I’m looking forward to meeting my team-mates and giving everything possible for the club in the upcoming season.”
0 Comments