Former Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor has joined Odisha FC on a one-year contract ahead of the 2020-21 Indian Super League.
Steven was discovered by Newcastle United scouts when he was just nine years old and playing for Cramlington Juniors. He joined the NUFC academy in 1995 and turned professional with them in 2003. He made his debut for the Magpies in March 2004 in the UEFA Cup against Real Mallorca and went on to make 215 appearances for the club featuring in the English Premier League, Europa League (previously known as UEFA Cup), EFL Championship, FA Cup and the EFL Cup.
The centre-back has also represented England at various youth levels, but a senior cap never came his way.
After two decades at St. James’ Park, Taylor left his hometown club to join MLS side Portland Timbers. A year later, he was on the move again – first briefly to Ipswich Town followed by a season at League One side Peterborough United.
In 2018, Steven joined A-League side Wellington Phoenix and featured in 47 league matches in two seasons and led them to their highest-ever league finish.
With uncertainty over the start of the A-League and wage cuts at Wellington Phoenix, the 34-year-old terminated his contract with the club and struck a one-year deal with an option to extend for another year with Odisha FC.
Steven’s credentials speak for themselves, but more than that we are bringing leadership qualities into our young squad.
He is an exceptional defender and is a presence that will give the whole team a whole boost.
Stuart Baxter, Head Coach, Odisha FC.
I am extremely delighted to join Odisha FC and am hopeful that my experience and leadership qualities will be helpful for the team.
I am very happy to be working under Stuart once again and can’t wait to meet all the young Indian lads. I hope I can help the lads push on and in turn egg the team on towards the playoff spots.
I am looking forward to creating something special at Odisha FC, make no mistake about it.
Steven Taylor
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