MERV BELL

Debut: 2002/2003

Position: Left back/ Wing back

Previous Senior clubs: Ballinamallard United, Carrick Rangers (both N Ireland), Haydon Bridge, Newcastle Blue Star, Whickham, Heddon, Team Northumbria                                  

How he signed for Green and Black:  Taught at same school as Paddy and after years of persuasion eventually joined the club 

Profile: Been playing senior football since the age of 14, which might explain the  injury list. Once upon a time did prefer to play left wing back. Now that injuries are catching up with him he has been forced to retire and taken on managerial role. Spent most of his playing career with Team Northumbria. Also been capped by N Ireland at youth level. After two years managing the Reserves, he deservedly was promoted to 1st team manager for the 2010-11.

Comments: "The only Irish man to have a career shorter than Norman Whiteside. As you can see he has played for quite a number of clubs. This was not always down to his footballing ability. Many clubs had to part with him as they couldn’t understand a word he says. Thankfully at the minute, fellow countryman Daz Campbell is always prepared to translate for him.”


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