IRELAND: Kerry FC sign Zimbabwe international Shane Maroodza

By Agencies

IRISH football club Kerry FC have signed defender Shane Maroodza, with the 21-year-old Zimbabwe international arriving after a long period with Huddersfield in the UK.

Maroodza, who has enjoyed a successful period playing in England, is manager Colin Healy’s third signing of the summer transfer window.

The Zimbabwe international was with Huddersfield Academy teams from Under 17 to Under 21 before graduating to the Huddersfield B team.

He also had loan spells with Ossett United and Bradford PA. He had a successful period with the latter in the National League, playing 11 games.

The defender, who normally plays at left back, has represented his native Zimbabwe on a number of occasions, making his debut in March 2024. He was also part of the international squad in June 2024 as part of their World Cup Qualifying campaign.

Speaking after he arrived in Kerry, Maroodza told kerryfc.com: “I’m delighted to be here and I’m looking forward to getting going.

“I’ve been settling in since I arrived here, and I’m really enjoying it so far. I just want to thank Colin for believing in me, and I want to perform for all the supporters here in Mounthawk Park.

“The other players have been telling me about the atmosphere created here, and I can’t wait to experience that first hand”

On his latest acquisition, Healy said: “We are delighted to have Shane here in Kerry and looking forward to seeing what he can do on the pitch.

“He has been in training with us for the last few weeks and has been really good around the group, and has fit in really well.

“He comes with some fantastic experience, from his time with Huddersfield and, of course, making his international debut with Zimbabwe. Hopefully he enjoys his time here in Kerry.”