Football journeyman completes latest move to the National League North
Ex Rangers and Nottingham Forest striker Joe Garner has completed his move from Oldham Athletic to Morecambe on a one-year deal.
The former Blackburn Rovers, Ipswich Town and Watford man is now 38 years of age as he moves onto his next challenge in the sixth tier of English football. The Shrimps will have the option to extend Garner’s stay for a further year at the end of the season.
Garner was signed by ex Rangers boss Mark Warburton in August 2016 from Preston North End for around £1.8m ahead of the club’s first season back in the Scottish Premiership since administration. During his season in Govan, he scored 10 goals in 34 appearances including a hat trick against Hamilton in the Scottish Cup and a consolation goal in an Old Firm defeat to Celtic. He left for Ipswich in June 2017.
Garner was on target at Celtic Park in Rangers' 5-1 defeat to the hands of Celtic in 2016.placeholder image
Garner was on target at Celtic Park in Rangers' 5-1 defeat to the hands of Celtic in 2016. | Getty Images
Morecambe complete signing of ‘clinical finishing’ Garner
A club statement read: “Morecambe Football Club are delighted to confirm the signing of experienced striker Joe Garner on a one-year deal with an option of a further year, subject to the necessary league and FA approvals. The 38-year-old arrives at the Halo Aerospace Stadium as our new number nine with a wealth of experience, having enjoyed a distinguished professional career spanning almost two decades across the English Football League, Scotland and European football.
“A product of Blackburn Rovers’ academy, Garner began his senior career with his hometown club before going on to enjoy successful spells with the likes of Carlisle United, Nottingham Forest, Watford, Preston North End, amongst other clubs.Throughout his career, Garner has made well over 600 senior appearances and scored more than 180 goals.
“Renowned for his tireless work ethic, intelligent movement and clinical finishing, he established himself as one of the most respected forwards outside the Premier League. Everyone at Morecambe Football Club would like to welcome Joe to the club and wish him every success in red.”
Journeyman has now completed his move from Oldham Athletic to Morecambe.placeholder image
Journeyman has now completed his move from Oldham Athletic to Morecambe. | Getty Images
Garner on latest move
The Englishman told his new employers: "It's a massive club and we're looking to push on this year to get out of the league. We know it will be difficult but we'll give it our best shot. I'm happy everything has been done so fast, so I can get out there with the lads. It's going to a massive pre-season."
Morecambe boss Adam Lakeland added: “I'm delighted to bring Joe to Morecambe FC. The career he's had speaks for itself, but despite everything he has achieved, playing for top clubs and winning promotions, I still see someone who relishes competing, hates losing, loves scoring goals and has an unwavering desire to win football matches. That competitive edge and enthusiasm for the game are just two of the reasons he's still performing at such a high level, and why he was able to make such a positive impact in League Two last season.”
Continue Reading