Teenage shot-stopper Tom Myles says he is "buzzing" to begin life at Rochdale AFC after signing a one-year contract following a successful pre-season trial.
Rochdale Football Club has officially confirmed the signing of 19-year-old goalkeeper Tom Myles, who joins the squad on a one-year contract after leaving Manchester United earlier this summer.
Myles, who featured in three of Dale’s pre-season friendlies, has impressed coaches and teammates during his trial spell and now begins a fresh chapter after more than a decade at Old Trafford.
“It’s been going on for a while now, so I’m delighted to finally get it over the line and be a Rochdale player,” said Myles. “The lads and staff have been so welcoming, and the training’s been top-class, that’s really helped me make the decision.”
Myles credited Rochdale's senior goalkeepers Ollie Byrne and Josh Lewis for helping him settle in and giving him valuable experience. “Ollie’s a top keeper and a top lad. It’s great learning from someone who’s played 200 or 300 games for the club,” he said.
The Preston-born keeper gained his first taste of senior football last season with Runcorn Linnets, making 17 appearances and keeping four clean sheets. He later joined Leek Town while still training with United.
“I loved it there,” Myles recalled. “Playing men’s football, Saturdays at 3pm, night games, that experience was massive for me. It’s what football’s all about.”
Originally joining Manchester United at just six years old, Myles progressed through the age groups before reaching the Under-21s. He said the move to Rochdale was influenced by the club's environment and playing style, which he feels suits his strengths.
“The way the gaffer, Jimmy McNulty, sees the game is exactly how I do. His style of play fits my game as a goalkeeper. I’ve been really impressed.”
Myles also spoke to several former and current players before signing. “I spoke to Kingy [Jack Kingdon], Tommy Lee, Tom Heaton, and Lils. They all spoke so highly of the club and of the fans. That meant a lot.”
With Rochdale’s final pre-season fixture set to be against Myles’ former club Manchester United, the young keeper said he’s looking forward to reuniting with old teammates.
“I’ve known some of those lads since I was six. It’ll be nice to see everyone again. Hopefully we can get the win.”
Looking ahead to the National League opener at Boreham Wood, Myles said the mood in the dressing room is upbeat. “Pre-season is what it is, but the boys are buzzing to get started. We can’t wait for the real stuff next week.”
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