Cambridge United have today completed the Club’s first summer signing, as former Sutton United defender Louis John joins the U’s on a two year deal.
John, 24, arrives at the Abbey Stadium adding competition to United’s defensive options as primarily a centre back, whilst also capable of playing at right back.
Having initially developed through the youth and reserve teams at Gander Green Lane, John joined Crawley Town before reuniting with Sutton on loan in January 2014 and signing permanently the following season. He then built further experience through loans with Hemel Hempstead, Hampton & Richmond and Ebbsfleet.
The defender broke into the Sutton first team during the 2016/17 campaign, featuring 15 times before becoming a regular last year with 37 appearances as the South West London outfit reached the National League play-offs.
John now switches to the Abbey Stadium - where he played against the U’s in last season’s FA Cup – aiming to continue his progression by making the step up into the Football League in amber and black.
Thrilled to have signed, John commented: “I am very pleased to have got the deal over the line. It’s a step up for me, but I’m really looking forward to adapting to the level and seeing what I can produce.
“The ethos of the Football Club was a big attraction. Meeting Joe Dunne (Head Coach) and speaking to him about the way he wants to play and what he expects from a centre back was very appealing. He’s clearly a coach who I feel can improve my game.
“Also when speaking to other people within football, nobody has had a bad word to say about Cambridge United so it stuck out as a really good option for me.”
He continued: “I’m excited to get to know the place even more. I will be moving to Cambridge to live here and I’m looking forward to that, as well as day one of pre-season where I’ll meet the rest of the lads and start preparing right for next year.
“I don’t come here expecting to start every game, so I know there is a lot of hard work ahead where I will have to force my way into the team. But that’s a good thing and it’s always positive to have targets for yourself. Right now I’m aiming to come back fit and ready to go.”
Cambridge United’s Head of Football, Ben Strang added: “Louis is a player we have monitored closely throughout the season. He joins us at an ideal age having accumulated decent experience and playing minutes but also with the potential to improve.
“We feel he is capable of making the transition to the Football League and have been impressed with his mentality when meeting him. He is athletic, enjoys defending and gives us versatility in our defensive options.”
Louis John is the first player to sign for the U’s this summer ahead of the 2018/19 Sky Bet League Two season, and you can too!
Secure your place for 23 games at the Abbey Stadium next year with a season ticket by clicking here, calling 01223 566 500 or in-store!