Winger signs from Stalybridge Celtic
Australian winger Mitch Austin has joined Cambridge United from Blue Square Bet North side Stalybridge Celtic.
Austin, 22, has played more than 70 games for the Celts over the past three seasons, scoring 10 goals in the process.
A pacey left-sided player who likes to play with the ball at his feet, Austin started his career with Sydney-based Manly United. He caught the attention of Rotherham United while on a UK tour, with the npower League One side offering the then-teenaged player a scholarship.
He struggled to break through into the Rotherham side, and enjoyed a successful six-month spell playing in Sweden before joining Stalybridge.
The Aussie was clearly excited about stepping up to the challenge of the Blue Square Bet Premier next season: "I spoke to Richard [Money, Head Coach] and Jez [George, Director of Football] and they were really keen for me to come down and have a look around.
“I saw the training ground and had a look around the stadium and was impressed by the facilities, plus I really liked the city. I know the kind of crowds Cambridge get and that’s a change from what I’m used to so I’m really looking forward to that.
“I know about of a lot of the players, I know Tom Elliott came from Stockport and I’ve seen how well he’s done at Cambridge. I’ve not played with any of the squad before but I’m looking forward to getting settled in.”
On his hopes for the coming season, Austin echoes the thoughts of the U’s other recent acquisitions: “Richard and Jez have ambitions to go for promotion next season, so I want to be a part of that.
“I’ve kept an eye on the players the club have already signed and this is definitely the next step to help me further my career.”
Concluding with what fans can hope to see from him at the R Costings Abbey Stadium next season, Mitch said: “I’m quite quick and hopefully I can get a few assists from the wing and chip in with a few goals too.
“My aim is to help get us in the playoffs or win automatic promotion spot next season.”