Central Coast Mariners Head Coach John Hutchinson has begun building out his squad with the signing of talent young midfielder Oliver O’Carroll.
The 17-year-old arrives as an Australian Youth international, most recently impressing for the Joeys in the AFC U17 Asian Cup in May, where Australia made the semi-finals.
O’Carroll had a stand-out tournament – impressing particularly in the quarter-finals where he was on target in a 3-0 win against Vietnam – and was praised for his technical ability and decision-making in the middle of the park.
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Previously a part of Melbourne City’s academy, O’Carroll will now further his development at the Mariners.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Mariners, and I am grateful for the opportunity,” said O’Carroll.
“From the moment I spoke to the club, I felt the club was the right fit for me.
“The environment they’ve created and the pathway they provide for young players made it an easy decision.
“My first impressions have been really positive. Everyone has been welcoming and it’s clear there is a strong culture throughout the club. The players and staff have been great to work with and I’m looking forward to learning more from them and continuing to develop.
“This season, I want to keep improving every day, earn my opportunities, and contribute as much as I can to the team. Collectively, we want to compete for trophies and continue building on the club’s high standards.”
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Sporting Director Matt Simon believes the club has signed one of the most promising young players in the country.
“Oliver is a current Australian youth international with tremendous potential, and we’re excited to welcome him to the Mariners. At just 17 years of age, he has all the attributes to develop into an excellent player.”
“We’re proud of the opportunities this club provides young footballers, and we’re looking forward to helping Oliver take the next step in his career.”
The Mariners move to sign O’Carroll follows on from the appointment of Marines legend Hutchinson as their new Head Coach.
Whilst O’Carroll is technically their first signing of the off-season, the club has also been busy handing out deals to some of it’s existing players including Diesel Herrington, Storm Roux, Haine Eames and Oli Lavale.
Following a turbulent last six months in Gosford the Mariners now have new custodians after it was confirmed Total Soccer Growth Holdings (TSG) had taken full ownership of the club.
