Nevin signs Kiwi ‘White Knight’

Canterbury United young player of the year Michael White has secured a professional contract with the NZ Knights after impressing Manager Paul Nevin during a week long trial.

Nevin has signed the 19 year old international age group midfielder after first watching him during Canterbury United’s impressive run to the NZFC Grand Final.

“The lad has great physical attributes and a great desire to play the game at a higher level, aspects that have come through each time I watched him play.”

“He impressed me again when I watched the NZ U20 side play in Australia recently and the week with us has only served to confirm his football ability but also his character.”

“He is young and shows great potential, it is up to him now to make every post a winner and to learn from the coaching staff and the likes of Scot Gemmill, Richard Johnson and other senior pros.”

White was delighted with the offer from Nevin and is looking forward to starting work as a Knight later this week.

“This is any young player’s dream, to pick up a professional contract in a quality competition and even better to do so without leaving the country.”

“I have been extremely lucky to have played alongside some quality players under great coaches at Canterbury this season and I must thank them for helping me attract the attention of the Knights.”

“The short time I have had on trial has made it clear that I have much to learn from Paul Nevin and the other players. The feeling around the squad and the club is superb, I’m buzzing.”

White will make the move to Auckland a permanent one in time for the start of official pre-season training on June 1st.

Michael White

Height: 1.77m
Weight: 70kg
DOB: 8th January 1987
Nickname: Whitie
Position: Striker, Midfield

Clubs: Richmond F.C, Nelson Suburbs, Canterbury Utd

Honours: 10th, 11th Grade Nelson Reps, 12th 13th 14th 15th 16th New Zealand National Academy, New Zealand Under 17 World Cup Team, Olympic F.C Under 19 National Club Tournament Napier, Nelson Suburbs League Champions 2004 & 2005, Nelson Suburbs Top Golden Boot 2003 & 2004 & 2005, Otago Milk Cup Team Ireland 2005 (Guest Player), Canterbury United 2005/2006, Canterbury United Young Player of the Year 2005/2006, New Zealand Under 20 World Cup Team.

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