Bird Signs for Town

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 13/03/2008

17-year-old Grimsby Town defender Matthew Bird has signed professional terms with the Mariners, putting pen to paper on a two year deal with Town. Bird, who Man Utd wanted to give a trial to, has committed himself to his home town club.

The former Lindsey school pupil has played for Grimsby's various sides since he was 11, and to finally go professional is a childhood dream come true for him.

"I am really proud to have signed for my home-town club", Bird told the Grimsby Telegraph.

Bird was offered a trial at Old Trafford recently but missed the boat as he was injured at the time. Who knows, Man Utd's loss could be Town's gain.

"I grew up around here and it will be good to give something back. I was out for a long time with a cartilage problem in my knee, but I have worked hard and come back stronger.

"These are really exciting times for Grimsby Town. It is good to be signing-up at this crucial period."

Bird is the latest in a production line of quality former youth players not seen since the 1980s at Blundell Park. Ryan Bennett, Danny North, Nick Hegarty, Peter Bore and Andy Taylor have all come through the ranks in recent years. Should Town hang on to them all, they could be a nucleus of a successful side for several years to come.

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