Sydney FC sign Manchester United prospect James Overy as teenager eyes Socceroos breakthrough

Overy underlined his desire to secure consistent first-team minutes to strengthen his push for next year's Asian Cup squad.

In an official club statement, Overy said: "I feel this is the right time for me to take the next step and play senior football. Sydney FC is a massive club with a history of winning trophies and developing young Australian players, so I'm really excited to be joining.

"Being involved with the Socceroos has given me a taste of where I want to get to. Playing regularly for Sydney FC is a huge opportunity for me to keep developing and hopefully earn more opportunities with the national team."

Overy will look to emulate the trajectory of Paul Okon-Engstler, who broke into the senior national side and earned a transfer to FC Koln after flourishing in Sky Blue colours.

Welcoming the teenager's arrival, Sydney head coach Patrick Kisnorbo said: "James is an extremely exciting young Australian player who we believe has a very big future. 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.

"He has already been around the Socceroos at only 18, which demonstrates how highly regarded he is, and what a good character he is as well."

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