New York Red Bulls sign Ashley Fletcher on loan from Watford

The New York Red Bulls have signed striker Ashley Fletcher on loan from Premier League club Watford for six months with an option to buy, as previously reported by 90min

Fletcher will occupy an International spot on New York’s senior roster, pending P1-visa and ITC.

"We are happy to add Ashley to our team,” said Sporting Director Denis Hamlett. “His experience in both the English Premier League and English Championship will prove to be valuable among our young group of players.”

Fletcher kicked off his career at Manchester United’s youth academy before reaching the English Championship and the English Premier League. He’s recorded 42 goals and 20 assists in 177 appearances since signing his first professional contract at 20-years-old. 

At Watford, Fletcher managed two goals and one assists in six matches across all competitions. 

“It is good to see Ashley join our squad this season,” said Head Coach Gerhard Struber.

“His general movement off the ball suggests he has a good level of game understanding, which is shown by recognizing and exploiting space with precise timing. He will hopefully prove to be a good piece in the attacking zone.”

Fletcher has also seen stints at Barnsley, West Ham, Middlesbrough and Sunderland.  During that time, he managed 171 games played with 40 goals and 19 assists.

This is the latest addition for the Red Bulls in a busy offseason. The New York team also added Brazilian playmaker Luquinhas and Scottish winger Lewis Morgan to the roster to bolster  Gerhard Struber's attack, while bringing back Tom Edwards on loan from Stoke City to reinforce the defense. 

The team kicked off the 2022 Major League Soccer campaign on Saturday with a 3-1 triumph over the San Jose Earthquakes. They return to the pitch on March 5 against Toronto FC.


Source : 90min