Joe Jacobson has joined Jewish-owned Oldham Athletic from League One rivals Bristol Rovers.
Having missed large chunks of last season through injury, Jacobson 22, was released by Rovers after making 84 appearances.
“I feel great and cannot wait to get training with the lads,” Jacobson said. “New manager Dave Penney has a reputation of getting the best out of players, that suits me fine. I can’t wait to show the fans what I can bring to the party.”
The defender spoke of his frustration in his last few months at Rovers. “I want to put it behind me,” he said. “I feel as though I didn’t get the opportunity to show what I could do and my form suffered as a result.
“Oldham is a big club with a history. They have been in the Premier League and it is a good place for me to be. Pre-season starts on June 29 and I just want to start playing again. I hope we can push for promotion.”
Managing director Simon Corney said: “Joe is a player I genuinely like. I saw him three years ago and thought very highly of him. It came as quite a shock when I heard that Bristol Rovers had released him.
“Usually, I would not interfere with the manager and tell him who to sign but when I heard of his availability I thought it was too good to be true.
“He’s a nice boy, hard-working and I know I won’t get any trouble out of him. He’s an outstanding left-back and it wouldn’t surprise me that, if he has a good season, it would help him get back into the international fold.”
Selected to join the Maccabiah set-up, Corney recently withdrew from the squad as his wife is expecting their third child.
Looking at the club overall, Corney said: “Without wanting to tempt fate, we’re in a healthy position and have no debt, whilst still challenging . We’re in good shape.”
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