Former Leyton Orient and Bournemouth defender makes shock move

Former Leyton Orient and Bournemouth defender makes shock move.

 

In perhaps some of the most surprising news today, seventh-tier non-league side Westfield FC have completed the signing of vastly experienced defender Charlie Daniels, formerly of Leyton Orient and Premier League outfit AFC Bournemouth

 

The left-back joins Westfield at the end of an illustrious career in the game, which included over 120 appearances in the top-flight of English football and nine goals to his name as well, the most memorable of which perhaps being an absolute rocket against Manchester City in 2017.

 

Having departed League Two side Colchester United at the beginning of 2022, Daniels chose to retire from football, and most recently has been working for Watford as a coach for the U21s.

After coming through the academy at Tottenham Hotspur, Westfield’s new marquee signing made his name at Leyton Orient from January 2009 to the end of 2011 in which he made over 136 appearances for the O’s, scoring two goals.

 

Nevertheless, the highlight of his long career was undoubtedly the role he played in the rise of Bournemouth, where he spent eight years of his tenure. When he joined the Cherries in 2011, they were battling in League One, but having helped them secure promotion all the way to the Premier League and establish themselves as a top-flight club, it’s fair to say that Daniels deserves his “legend” status on the south coast.

 

Towards the end of his career in football, he enjoyed spells at Shrewsbury Town and Portsmouth, before retiring after leaving Colchester.

 

However, this step out of retirement is a huge statement signing for Westfield FC, who finished fourth in the Isthmian League South Central Division last season, but lost in the playoffs, as they look to bid for promotion this time around in the next campaign. A player with such experience could help their chances to battle for the top spot.