PROMISING young defender James Musa has been signed by Wellington Phoenix FC as one of the club’s under-21 players.
PROMISING young defender James Musa has been signed by Wellington Phoenix FC as one of the club-s under-21 players.
The talented Wanganui 18-year-old joins the Phoenix for the club-s Hyundai A-League 2010/11 campaign in what is his first contract as a professional player.
Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said Musa, primarily a centre back but with the potential to cover other defensive positions, was an exciting prospect for the future.
“Our commitment as a club is to play a leading role in developing young New Zealand players and James is a talent we believe can really go places.”
Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert had the opportunity to assess Musa-s ability when the youngster spent six weeks training with the Phoenix last season. Musa also took part in a training camp overseen by the Phoenix mentor ahead of the All Whites- World Cup qualifying match against Bahrain in Wellington in November.
“Jonathan Gould (Phoenix assistant coach) spotted James playing at a national age-group tournament and was impressed with his ability,” said Pignata. “On that basis we invited him to train with the club and Ricki was also very impressed with what he saw.”
Musa, who came to New Zealand from England with his family 12 years ago, is confident he has what it takes to succeed as a professional footballer.
“I wouldn-t be here, otherwise, and obviously the coaching staff has faith in me. My aim is to work hard and learn from the coaching staff and the players around me. I want to get experience and set myself up for the future.”
