The New Saints are delighted to announce the signing of highly-rated youngster, Benny Cuoto, on a short-term loan deal from Oldham Athletic.
The Portuguese-born left-sided player makes the move to Park Hall from the National League side and will spend at least half a season with the JD Cymru Premier champions.
Cuoto, who can play both left midfield and left back, has already built up significant senior experience having featured for the Latics both in the EFL and the National League. The 20-year-old has made 36 appearances to date and scored his first goal in League Two during the 2021/22 season.
The youngster is highly rated at Boundary Park and joins TNS to bring much-needed versatility to Craig Harrison’s side, who are looking to secure a record 16th league title this season.
Cuoto becomes The Saints’ second signing in the past seven days after Jared Harlock signed on a season-long loan from Blackburn Rovers last week. Like Harlock, the 20-year-old is experiencing his first taste of senior football away from his parent club, and will be looking to excite the fans during his spell at Park Hall.
TNS’ most recent recruit will be looking to hit the ground running with a packed schedule which includes matches in the JD Cymru Premier, Nathaniel MG Cup, JD Welsh Cup and the SPFL Trust Trophy.
Speaking on joining the club, Cuoto said:
“I am really pleased to move to The New Saints, and I think this will be a great move to continue my development. The team have always been really successful and have played at the highest level in Europe too, so I am excited to get started in the upcoming matches. There are lots of talented players in the squad and I am looking forward to playing alongside them.”
Head Coach, Craig Harrison, added:
“I’m really looking forward to working with Benny. He is a talented young player who gets up and down and is also athletic and has lots of energy. A technically good footballer and still only 19 years of age, having played almost 40 games in League Two and the National League, he’s got a bit of experience for such a young player. Benny will add some very good qualities to our squad.”
Chairman, Mike Harris, said:
“This is another signing highlighting how TNS are entrusted to develop some of the most reputable clubs’ finest talents and we’re delighted to welcome Benny to Park Hall. His experience at EFL level shows the calibre of talent we’re able to attract to the club and the JD Cymru Premier, which helps improve the standard and reputation of our domestic game. I am looking forward to seeing him perform in the matches ahead.”
Lead image courtesy of Oldham Athletic.
