Mariners sign Matthew Fletcher as Matt Sim departs

The Central Coast Mariners have signed former Young Socceroo, Matthew Fletcher, while Matt Sim's contract has been terminated by mutual consent.

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The 23-year-old, who has spent majority of his career in the U.K. with the likes of Sunderland, Sheffield Wednesday and Hull City will add some serious firepower to Walmsley’s front third.

Fletcher has been training with the Central Coast Mariners since before Christmas and joins Luis Garcia, Brad McDonald, Alastair Bray, Francesco Stella and Trent Buhagiar on the list of Mariners’ January transfer recruits.  

It’s been a busy month for the Central Coast Mariners and head coach Tony Walmsley believes that Fletcher has what it takes to be a prominent goalscorer in the A-League.

“Fletch has really impressed everyone with his approach since he's arrived. He needed to work hard for this opportunity after time out through injury and has shown a real appetite and dedication to his craft,” Walmsley said.

“His potential excites me. He has all the makings of a top class striker and we expect him to start to fulfil that potential and be a great contributor to the Mariners future success,” Walmsley said.

Meanwhile, Sim leaves the club having scored two goals in 28 A-League matches and four goals in the FFA Cup.

“Matt worked hard to force himself into the team this season and got there on merit. His injury time goal against the Jets will be remembered for a long time,” Walmsley said.

“I’d like to wish him all the best for the next stage of his career,” Walmsley said.