New Neath signings get the fans talking

NEATH fans were shocked to see two new names in the squad for last Saturday’s win at The New Saints.

The Gnoll club kept the signings of Maltese international Udo Nwoko and former Wigan Athletic midfielder Joe Holt under wraps until just before kick-off.

Holt helped the Eagles to a 2-1 victory and picked up a late booking while Nigerian-born Nwoko was an unused substitute.

Experienced journeyman Nwoko moved to Malta at the age of 14 and has played for a host of clubs across Europe, Asia and South America.

Now 27, he started his career with Hibernians in Malta before spells at Xewkija Tigers, Mosta, Hibernians again and Marsaxlokk.

In 2007, Nwoko signed for Portuguese club Leixoes and scored on his debut against Benfica. He was linked with a £1.25m move to Reading, then in the Premier League, in January 2008.

However, an injury scuppered his big money transfer and he signed a short-term contract with Brazilian outfit Clube Nautico Capibaribe.

After spending time in Greece and Cyprus with Panthrakikos and Doxa Katokopia he switched to Pas Hamedan in the Iran Pro League.

Nwoko was called up by Malta for the first time ahead of UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying matches against Hungary in October 2007 and has been capped nine times.

Holt, meanwhile, came through the youth ranks to the first team squad at Wigan but was later released from the DW Stadium.

He had trials with Plymouth Argyle, Tranmere Rovers and MK Dons before joining non-league Cammell Laird. The 21-year-old left Cheshire outfit Woodley Sports to sign for Neath.