UNITED SIGN LEFT SIDED DEFENDER JACK IREDALE

Cambridge United have completed the signing of left back Jack Iredale, with the former Carlisle United man becoming the sixth addition for the U’s this summer.

Iredale, who was born in Greenock but emigrated with his family to New Zealand and then on to Australia as a youngster, switches to the Abbey to add competition on the left side of Mark Bonner’s defence, penning a two year deal.

Whilst down under, Iredale began his career with Perth Glory and ECU Joondalup in the National Premier Leagues in Western Australia. In 2017, he ventured back to his hometown club in Scotland, Greenock Morton, where he scored four goals in 49 appearances, as well as featuring for Queens Park on loan for a short spell.

Last season he enjoyed his debut year in the EFL with Carlisle United, where he played 30 times for the Cumbrians scoring against Leyton Orient and Crewe Alexandra. He was also a member of the Carlisle defence who kept a clean sheet when the U’s travelled north for the away fixture at Brunton Park last November.

Looking forward to now plying his trade at the Abbey, Iredale said: “It has been a bit of wait but I’m over the moon to get the deal done and to finally be here, I’m really happy.

“As a full back I like to get up and down the pitch, I love getting forward to get crosses into the box, so I see myself as a modern day full back. I’ve missed playing football, and it feels so close now and I’m ready to go and throw myself head first into pre-season.

“As soon as I spoke to the Head Coach (Mark Bonner) and Ben Strang, I knew it was a good Club for me to move to. I’m really looking to play as many games as possible for a Club that is really trying to do something this season.”

Meanwhile, U’s Head Coach Mark Bonner added: “I’m really pleased that Jack has now signed with us. It’s been on the cards for a while but we can now get going and ensure he is fit and ready to go once the season starts.

“At his best, he is an attacking full back with good quality who will add to our attacking options. He is quick and strong and has a good amount of experience. His football upbringing is a bit different and therefore he may have gone under the radar a little. I really like his character and the qualities he will bring to the team and am delighted by his optimism and enthusiasm to get going.”

Iredale will wear the U’s number three shirt.