Archived News from July 2002
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GREENACRE JOINS STOKE
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City boss Steve Cotterill has won the chase for Mansfield Town's sought-after young striker Chris Greenacre Greenacre, 24, has agreed a three-year deal at the Britannia Stadium and becomes the manager's first signing.
He arrives on a Bosman free after three seasons at Mansfield during which time he scored 49 league goals in 121 games and helped the Stags to promotion from Division Three last term. Greenacre's capture ends a patient quest by City for his signature. He was strongly linked with a move to other clubs, including Nottingham Forest. Says the City boss: "We are delighted to get him. Without doubt Chris was one of the most promising young strikers in the lower divisions and is a player very much on the up. He is an excellent signing and is the player we wanted." The former Manchester City apprentice was Mansfield's top scorer last season with 21 goals in 44 league appearances. He joined Mansfield on a free three years ago after loan spells with Cardiff, Blackpool and Scarborough before being allowed to leave Maine Road. He says: "I am delighted to sign for Stoke and can't wait for the new season. The set-up here and the stadium is impressive, and Steve Cotterill's appointment in May was a big factor in my decision." He adds: "I feel I can improve my game further and the manager has an excellent reputation as a coach and has a first-class coaching back-up team with him here. "My first task will be to establish myself in the side. I won't feel under immediate pressure and I would ask the fans to be patient while I come to terms with stepping up two divisions. But I am very, very excited by this challenge and I am really looking forward to playing for Stoke - the ground, the fans, everything." Source: Stoke City official website |
Latest | July 2002