Sports News
18 January 2012
US move for James O'Connor
Former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder and Beswicks Sports client, James O'Connor is quitting England and moving to the U.S. to play for Orlando City.
The 32-year-old leaves Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer and should make his Orlando debut next month.
A former Stoke City player, he joins a club part-owned by Stoke City director Phil Rawlins and coached by Adrian Heath who played for top league clubs such as Everton, Manchester City and Espanyol amongst others and who was a major factor in his decision to move stateside.
James O'Connor
"The opportunity to work with Adrian and everyone else is great," said O'Connor. "This is a club that's going places and is something I definitely want to be a part of."
The Dubliner, who came through the youth ranks at Stoke after moving from Ireland with Clive Clarke of Beswicks Sports, will also help with the coaching in Florida.
Heath, who has been working in America for the last three years, said: "James has been playing at the top two levels of English football for most of his career.
"He has great personality and professionalism. That's what he'll bring to the club. We have younger players who will look at James and see everything he does. He's going to lead by example.
"They will see what he brings every day to training – it's a great example for our younger guys."
Clive Clarke, who represents James commented “James and I came over to Stoke City together and have remained good friends ever since.”
“James had the option to sign a new deal at Sheffield Wednesday but wanted to move to the US and is looking forward to the challenge of helping Orlando City continue their winning ways. James’ desire to win will be a huge asset to Orlando City and we wish him well with the move.”
For more information on playing opportunities in the US contact Clive Clarke on +44 1782 205000 or email clive.clarke@beswickssports.com.
Back to news list