Former East Coast Bays youth player Tyler Bindon has signed a two-year contract with English League One club Reading.
Bindon (18) is eligible to play for New Zealand and the United States, and has already represented the United States at U-19 level.
He joins Reading after a lengthy trial at the club, after previously being part of the Los Angeles FC’s youth academy.
Bindon featured in Reading’s pre-season programme, coming off the bench in games against Swansea City and Southampton.
Both the central defender’s parents represented New Zealand at sport.
His mother, Jenny, made 77 appearances as a goalkeeper for the Football Ferns between 2004 and 2014, and is currently an assistant coach for English club London City Lionesses.
Father Grant was the captain of New Zealand’s national volleyball team.
Bindon is eligible to play for the United States as his mother was born in Illinois.
Main photo: Tyler Bindon … now a professional player with Reading. Photo credit: Reading FC.
Reading’s Mark Bowen, Head of Football Operations told the club’s website:
“Tyler is a bright lad both on and off the football pitch who has the work ethic and determination for a successful career in the sport.
“It was clear very early on that we wanted to bring him in, but we have all had to be very patient to get this deal done. So we are extremely happy to have fended off serious interest from high-profile clubs, finalised the deal, and see him join us — and we look forward to seeing him develop and learn at this club.”
A sign of things to come
When he was 11, Bindon scored from a direct free kick from 35 metres, when playing for East Coast Bays.
Here it is …
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