Hibs have today confirmed the signing of exciting American wing-back Emmanuel Johnson.
The 18-year-old jas signed a 3-and-a-half-year deal at Easter Road after leaving Barcelona's Residency Academy USA.
Johnson has immediately joined the Hibees feeder side Charleston Battery in the USL for their 2022 season.
Academy Director, Steve Kean, speaking to the official club website said:
“For EJ, the thing that jumped up and hit us was his athleticism; he is an incredible athlete. Along with that he has very high technical skills.
“We can see him playing in a number of different positions; he could certainly play wing back, attacking full back or be a ball-playing centre-back. Having that adaptability, with his power, pace and technical level, made him a real stand out youngster.
“I’m sure he will develop even further on his loan spell, and he will be a massive addition to the Development Team in the future.”
Head of Recruitment Ian Gordon, added:
“This is where our partnership with Charleston really comes to the fore. It allows us to recruit young, talented players for our Development Squad from different parts of the globe and provide them with a high level of coaching and a competitive games programme, as we sort out their work permits.
“This is just the start of our partnership with Charleston, and I look forward to seeing it flourish.”
HIBERNIAN-MAD VIEW:
It's good to see the partnership with Charleston finally being put to good use, after a slow start due to the CoronaVirus Pandemic.
The Hibees have been adding some really exciting youngsters from around the globe to their development side, and this lad looks a real prospect.
His time in South Carolina will be his first taste of men's football, and it will be interesting to watch him develop from afar.
Welcome to the Hibees Emmanuel and good luck in Charleston.
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