Marc Warren has been snapped up by English side Sheffield United before playing first team football at the Mariners
Former Central Coast Mariners youngster Marc Warren is the latest Aussie youngster to sign for a top English football club. Warren leaves after his former side are currently lying in second position in the table. Sheffield United will be the perfect step for the 19 year old left back.
He-s yet made his Hyundai A-League debut though, but Sheffield were suitably impressed with the talented defender during a two week trial recently. Having played a big part in the National Youth League side-s season, he was expected to break into the first team this season. However, the Mariner-s excellent form has seen the first team settled as a unit and he-s not yet been involved.
It would-ve been a matter of time though and Warren would-ve probably broken into the first team next season.
Mariners coach Graham Arnold has no doubt Warren will be able to transition successfully into the English competition.
“Waz is a fantastic kid,” he said.
“He always puts 110 per cent in at training and loves his football. He’s great to have around the squad and I’m sure his football talent will only improve being around such a professional setup as Sheffield’s.”
Warren sees the Sheffield deal as a positive step for his career.
“It’s an amazing opportunity,” he said.
“I learned so much just during the two weeks I was there and I can’t wait for this experience.”
The two clubs share a close relationship, having seen the likes of Trent Sainsbury and Andrew Redmayne trial with the English club.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for Marc and I know he is really excited,” Mariners chairman Peter Turnbull said.
“I’m delighted that our relationship (with Sheffield) continues to strengthen.”
Warren will probably head into the United youth team for the remainder of the season, where he will adjust to the style of English football and settle into his new surroundings. He-ll hopefully be ready next season to take his next step and push for a first team berth at the famous Sheffield club.
Despite never actually playing for the Central Coast, Warren must have suitably impressed the coaches and manager at United and he-s certainly a name to look out for as Sheffield United bid to get themselves back into the Premier League.
