The New Saints FC are delighted to announce the signing of 18-year-old left-back Rui Clarke-Phillips, who links up with the first team squad following a successful six-week trial.

Clarke-Phillips, who has lived in Oswestry all his life, is a familiar face at Park Hall having progressed through The New Saints' academy from U7s level right through to U15s. He then spent a short spell with Wrexham's U16s before joining Tranmere Rovers.

More recently, the defender had a dual registration with Nantwich Town, alongside a month-long loan spell at Whitchurch Alport, gaining valuable senior and first-team experience along the way.

Head Coach Craig Harrison said: "Rui left Tranmere not so long ago, and we'd had really good reports on him, so he was unlucky not to get a contract there. He's a local lad who's been at this club before through the academy, and he offers real flexibility. He can play left-back, left centre-back or in midfield. With his size and athleticism, it was a no-brainer for us. 

“He's come in and done really well over pre-season, and still being eligible to occupy one of the under-19 spaces on the bench, that gives us extra flexibility with the squad too. But the main thing with Rui is his flexibility across positions, and his size, strength and athleticism."

Speaking on his return, Rui added: “The New Saints is where it all started for me, right back at U7s, so to be given this chance with the first team means a huge amount. I've picked up a lot of experience over the last couple of seasons at Wrexham, Tranmere, Nantwich and Whitchurch, and I feel ready for this next step. I can't wait to get going and repay the faith the club has shown in me."

Clarke-Phillips will wear the number 42 shirt at Park Hall and is available to sponsor for the upcoming season. Don’t miss out and contact Commercial Manager, Simon O’Reilly, at simon.oreilly@tnsfc.co.uk to secure your sponsorship.