Sports

Manchester United Confirm Overy's Permanent Move to Sydney FC

By Alex Young

Manchester United have completed their third transfer since the summer Deadline Day, with young right-back James Overy leaving the club on a permanent basis. The 18-year-old has signed a three-year deal with Sydney FC, marking his return to Australia, where he was born, after previously representing Perth Glory two years ago. United were among two Premier League clubs that made no signings on Deadline Day, but have remained active since the window closed. Last Wednesday, striker Chido Obi joined Dutch side Willem II on loan, followed shortly after by Jack Moorhouse's loan move to Dundee. Overy has come through Australia's youth football pathway, representing the Young Socceroos at the Under-20 World Cup and playing for the national Under-23 team. He has also been named in senior Socceroos squads, though he is yet to earn his first full international cap. Reflecting on his move, Overy said his time at Manchester United had been valuable but that he felt ready to take the next step in his career. "I've had an unbelievable experience at Manchester United and learned so much from being in that environment every day, but I feel this is the right time for me to take the next step and play senior football," he said. He added that joining Sydney FC, a club with a strong history of success and player development, was an exciting opportunity. "I want to come in, work hard, compete for a place in the team and show what I can do," Overy said, adding that regular first-team football could help him build on his early involvement with the Socceroos setup. Sydney FC manager Patrick Kisnorbo praised Overy's attributes, describing him as "quick, aggressive, technically very good," with strong attacking instincts for a right-back. "He has spent two important years developing in an elite environment at Manchester United and now he needs regular senior football to take the next step in his career," Kisnorbo said. He added that Overy's early involvement with the Socceroos at just 18 reflected both his talent and character. "We're delighted James has chosen Sydney FC and I'm looking forward to working with him," Kisnorbo said. Overy could make his debut for the club in Wednesday's Australia Cup semi-final against Melbourne Victory.