by akranes »
05 Apr 2014 13:59
I'm sure many of you will have seen this on twitter today. 17/18 year old USA U21 international striker who previosly played for Chicago Magic PSG youth teams it seems (never heard of them).
Andrija Novakovich Signs With Reading FC
2014 commit embarks on professional career with League Championship side
April 4, 2014
MILWAUKEE -- Marquette University 2014 men's soccer signee Andrija Novakovich (Muskego, Wis.) has signed a professional contract with English Football League Championship club Reading FC, according to MU head coach Louis Bennett.
"It was a bittersweet decision, and I am so grateful for the guidance and help Coach Bennett and the soccer staff have given me," said Novakovich, speaking from the city of Reading in the south of England. "Signing the letter of intent to play at Marquette was a proud point for me, and I will forever consider myself a Golden Eagle."
Novakovich, who had recently traveled to England for training on the back of a spell with the U-18 U.S. Under-18 Men's National National, found a home with the Royals of Reading FC.
"I am so happy for Andrija and all the Novakovich family," said Bennett. "I have known and worked with Andrija since he was seven years old and recognized both his talent and his dream. Coming to Marquette was to be a starting step and then on to the pros after his degree. The pro opportunity came a little faster than planned. Providing opportunity and guidance is always of paramount importance to all the young men we work with at Marquette and that was my promise to him and his family to do just that.
"It's a wonderful opportunity that provides a stabile quality situation at Reading as a budding professional soccer player," Bennett continued. "I wish him all the very best with big smiles.
"This is a feather in the cap for Marquette Soccer in the fact we can attract top recruits in the country. Andrija was the only available high school player in the top 10 nationally that had not yet turned pro. I always knew this may or may not be a full-time, four-year thing.
"Our 2014 recruiting class is very solid and with the later additions I am happy with the group, but obviously a player and person like Andrija will be missed."