A-League expansion club, Auckland FC have confirmed their first signings for the new season starting later this year.
Three All Whites and a New Zealand U-23 player are the first to be unveiled as members of Auckland FC’s men’s A-League squad for next season.
Cam Howieson, 29, the Auckland City midfielder, Francis De Vries, 29 a left back from Eastern Suburbs, Michael Woud, 25, a goalkeeper who has been in Japan are the three All Whites.
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They're joined by Jesse Randall, 21, who plays for Wellington Olympic on the left win and is a New Zealand U-23 international.
Head coach Steve Corica is right behind the New Zealand players who all have international experience of some sort.
“We are building a club that has a strong connection to Auckland. We wanted our first player announcements to be talented New Zealanders who have experience both locally and internationally.
“Michael is a great shot-stopper and is really excited to be returning home. I know he will be fighting for the chance to play in front of his friends and family.
“Both Francis and Cameron have been two of the most consistent players at a national level, and we have been tracking Jesse for a while now, and he has a huge amount of potential.
“All four players suit our attacking style of football; they will all be making their A-League debuts next season and will want to impress the home crowds.”
Corica said more players would be announced in the coming weeks, now the A-League season has officially ended.
Auckland FC CEO, Nick Becker said it was important to build the club from the local community.
“All four players signed today represent what we have said we would do from day one. We are building a club that is embedded in the community and creates new opportunities for players in Auckland.
“It is really special to have players who have a genuine connection to Auckland and its football clubs.
“Cameron Howieson has played over 114 games locally, has enjoyed a lot of local success with Auckland City and is incredibly popular with the local football community.
“Cam now has the opportunity, along with the others, to showcase their talent in the A-League and potentially overseas through our multi-club ownership.
“The level of energy and excitement for the club from the grassroots, social leagues and on the street has been incredibly humbling. This is just the start and we’re going to make Auckland proud.”
Howieson recently led Auckland City FC to its 12 Oceania Club Championship and is delighted to be signed to the new club after earlier stints with Burnley, and St Mirren.
“Football growth in New Zealand has exploded massively. Having a second club in Auckland FC will give the country a healthy dose of rivalry between the two clubs which makes it entertaining,” he said.
“I’m so excited to be part of this movement in our home country, it’s such an exciting time. Playing professionally again is something I’ve been working towards since coming back home.”
Auckland FC will play their home games at Mt. Smart’s Go Media Stadium when the 2024-25 season starts in October 2024.