NEW GULL PROFILE

Ben Wade

Ben discusses the latest Gulls incoming

CAREER SUMMARY

Matty Carson represented Glentoran before joining Southampton in 2020. From left back his fantastic displays played a part in the Saints’ U18 title success winning the Premier League South in 2022. He rapidly progressed up the ranks at Southampton signing a professional contract in 2023 and playing for their B side, he then moved up to the U21s and was immediately loaned out to NLS team Braintree for the rest of the 23/24 campaign. He played 7 times for ‘The Irons’ and scored one goal against Aveley. His return to the Southampton youth setup saw him be signed by The Gulls in a one year deal in readiness for the 24/25 season. Matty also played 8 times for Northern Ireland U19s between 2021-22, this included 6 appearances in the Euro Qualifiers. The left back will be looking to make his mark at Plainmoor and move back up the football pyramid.

HIGHLIGHTS

He provides an assist for Northern Ireland’s 2nd goal in the Euro Qualifier (there are no official highlights showing his goal at Aveley!).

TALKING ABOUT MATTY

Southampton FC scout Neil Kelly (2022)

“It is difficult for any kid in full-time football, but one thing Matty has is dedication and he is hungry to become a footballer. He should definitely get a career out of it because he has the talent and attitude to go far. I chat to Matty quite a bit and he has a very good temperament. Even when he is home he is out training or working on aspects of his game that need improved on”

CARSON STATS

DATE OF BIRTH: 29TH APRIL 2004 – 20 YEARS-OLD

HEIGHT: 1.84M

POSITION: LEFT BACK

NLS 23-24 STATS: APPEARANCES 7, GOALS 1, YELLOW CARDS 4, RED CARDS 0

MOST LIKELY/LEAST LIKELY

Most Likely To

Go zooming up the left flank and score. Known for his attacking threat, he will surely be one to “have a go.”
Play for his national team. Being Northern Irish, he may stand a chance of playing for the senior team. He has played for the U16s, U18s, U19s and U21s.

Least Likely To

Stay for more than a year. To some surprise, Matty only signed a one year deal.

CONCLUSION

We’ve had numerous youth players move down to Plainmoor over the years from EFL clubs, many have relished the task and flourished at United, whilst many have struggled with the physical nature of men’s football and disappeared before long. Matty’s credentials are solid enough, with Saints youth team and North Ireland U19s experience, and importantly his spell at Braintree will have given him a real taste of what National League South football is all about. Yet another that will be looking forward to pre-season and the chance to show us what he’s about. The squad reaches 13, probably time for more attacking options now I reckon!