Lee Roche signs for Burnley

Last updated : 26 June 2003 By Tony Scholes

This signing takes us another stage forward in putting together a new defence with both Roche and Camara joining a squad that was somewhat lacking in defenders following a who series of departures at the end of last season.

Roche comes strongly recommended by former Claret and now Manchester United number two Micky Phelan. He was released by United at the end of last season and there have been no shortage of clubs looking at him.

He recently held talks with Blackpool and their boss Steve McMahon admitted at the time that a number of First Division clubs were chasing his signature.

Despite a lack of first team experience at Old Trafford he did have a full season in the 2nd Division of the Nationwide League with Wrexham in the 2000/01 season playing at right-back with Mark McGregor in the centre of defence. However he has been played in the centre in his occasional appearances, and with the reserves at Manchester United.

This signing starts to confirms the commitment that Barry Kilby made regarding us having a younger squad next season with Roche just 22.

The player almost managed to sneak into Turf Moor unnoticed last week but one eagle eyed fans spotted him and thought he was Barnsley’s Chris Lumsdon. But he’s not, he is Lee Roche and he is now a Claret after signing on the dotted line this morning and confirming a two year deal.

Welcome to the Turf Lee.