First Team Manager Andy Burgess supported by available Team Building Lottery funds has stepped up preparations this week with three more players signing on for the 2022/23 season.
Matthew Lars Fossen is a 26-year-old defender who is returning to the UK after playing in professional environments in Norway, Spain, and Sweden, having come through Leeds United’s academy and having also been at Bradford City and Halifax Town. A central defender by-trade, he can also operate as a right back/right wing back or a holding midfielder. He has signed a contract with the Club for the 2022/23 season, subject to international clearance.
“Bringing Matty to the Club is something we weren’t sure we would be able to do but having worked with him over the past few weeks, spoken to him at length and knowing his reasons for joining us, show where we are trying to go as a club.
He has been in professional environments over the past three seasons in Norway, Spain, and Sweden and although only 26, his experience and knowledge will be vital to us. He is a fantastic character – someone who will drive the dressing room and ensure standards are kept high – and I believe will become a firm favourite at Hayden Road.
He is a centre back by trade but can also operate at right back or in a deeper role in midfield so that versatility will be key to us.”
Evangelos-Nikalaos Empochontsif is a 21-year-old, left-sided centre back who signs from Canvey Island and has recently moved to the area to attend Northampton University.
His previous clubs include Woodford Town, Walthamstow, Newbury Forest and Hullbridge Sports and in 2019 he went on trial at Middlesbrough FC.
Andy Burgess: “Evan came on our radar in the summer through our network of contacts in the London area and we were made aware he is moving to the area to attend Northampton University.
We’ve seen through pre-season he’s got great presence, is an excellent defender and is comfortable and efficient in possession.
His pedigree, having played lots of senior football and having trialed at a Championship club, speaks for itself, and he is another player we want to work with and develop as we move forward.”
Courtney Lashley is an 18-year-old former Northampton Town defender who has shown great ability and work ethos whilst training with the squad in pre-season. He can play as either a left back or left wing back and has signed a contract with the Club for the 2022/23 season.
Andy Burgess: “We are pleased Courtney has agreed to continue his football journey with us having previously been a scholar across at Northampton Town.
He is exactly the type of player I want to work with – young, energised, and keen to learn.
He has a lot of really good traits; he’s quick, athletic and has a great left foot and we are looking forward to working with Courtney this season.”
(Images courtesy of Hawkins Images ©2022)
