STRIKER Jamie Matthews and midfielder Stuart McNaught are the latest additions to Darren Byfield’s revamped Redditch United squad ahead of the new Southern League Premier Division season.
Matthews had a spell at Hednesford Town last season, scoring for the Pitmen against the Reds in the Birmingham Senior Cup. He includes FC United of Manchester, Nuneaton Town, Colwyn Bay and Latvian side Daugavpils among his other clubs.
The powerful 24-year-old can also play out wide and hit the headlines when, as a teenager, he reached the final stages of Sky TV’s Football’s Next Star before injury robbed him of the chance to turn out for Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan.
“All I want at the moment is some stability and to play for a club where I’m rated,” said Matthews.
“I’m looking forward to playing for Redditch on the 3G. It’s the best surface and suits my playing style. Defenders are going to have a nightmare playing against me out there.”
McNaught was a Hednesford Town favourite last season and also played at Sutton Coldfield Town, Boldmere St Michaels and helped Stafford Rangers to their Evo-Stik North Division One title in 2016.
The 30-year-old admits his game has changed a little over the years.
“A few years back I was probably a box-to-box midfielder but for the last couple of seasons I’ve played more of a sitting role, getting on the ball and passing it around,” he explained.
“I’m not afraid to put my foot in when needed. I’ve spoken to Darren a few times and he’s sold the club to me. I can’t wait to get started now.”
The Reds begin pre-season training on Saturday before playing first friendly at Coleshill Town on Saturday, July 1.
