AFC Totton Sign Former Premier League and England Youth International Josh Sims
AFC Totton are delighted to announce the signing of former Southampton and England youth international Josh Sims.
The arrival of Sims is one of the most high-profile signings in the club's history, with the 29-year-old winger bringing a wealth of experience from the Premier League, Championship, MLS and Scottish Premiership to the Snows Stadium.
Sims came through Southampton's famed academy after joining the club in 2011 and quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in English football. He represented England at every age group from Under-17 to Under-20 level and was part of the Young Lions squad that won the 2014 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, becoming a European champion at international level.
The winger made his Premier League debut for Southampton against Everton in November 2016 and immediately announced himself on the big stage, registering an assist for former Stag Charlie Austin's winning goal in a memorable 1-0 victory at St Mary's.
His breakthrough season continued with appearances in the UEFA Europa League and a key contribution in Southampton's run to the 2017 EFL Cup Final, providing the decisive assist for Shane Long's winner against Liverpool at Anfield to send the Saints to Wembley.
Since then, Sims has built an impressive career across England and abroad, enjoying spells with Reading, New York Red Bulls, Doncaster Rovers, Ross County and, most recently, National League side Yeovil Town.
Now, after a career that has taken him across some of the biggest stages in the game, the former Premier League winger brings his quality, experience and winning mentality to AFC Totton as the club continues its ambitious journey.
Scott Rendell said:
"It's a huge signing for the club. I have known Josh for a while and his career, and to bring in someone of Josh's calibre to the football club is huge for us and he is capable of taking us to the next level."
Director of Football Dave Wright believes the signing is another landmark moment for the club.
"To bring in a player of Josh's calibre is a huge statement for AFC Totton. He's played in the Premier League, represented his country through the England age groups and won a European Championship with England. Those are experiences that very few players at this level can boast."
"Josh still has a real hunger and desire to achieve things in the game, and from the first conversation it was clear that he wanted to be part of what we're building here. He's an exceptional addition to our squad and we're absolutely thrilled to welcome him to AFC Totton."
Everyone at AFC Totton would like to extend a warm welcome to Josh and wish him every success in a Stags shirt.
Keep an eye out soon to hear Josh's first words after joining the club on youtube!
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Josh is sponsored by HARRISON HIRE