Harrogate Town AFC have said they are delighted to be able to release details that towering 6’4” defender Matt Heath has joined the club.
Matt, 32, brings just shy of 250 league games of experience to the back line at the CNG Stadium and with our injury list growing; his arrival couldn’t have been timed better.
Starting his career at his home club of Leicester City, Matt made his debut in 2001-2002 against Charlton Athletic in the Premiership. During his time with the “Foxes”, he would go on to make 60 appearances (scoring 6 goals) before leaving in 2005. Whilst at Leicester, Matt also went on loan to Stockport County, who were in League 2 at the time.
Matt then re-joined former manager Micky Adams at Coventry City in 2005, following his release from Leicester City.
A year later, he joined Elland Road giants Leeds United on loan, making the move permanent on the 2nd January 2007. Matt would go on to partner Ugo Ehiogu and Matthew Kilgallon and make over 50 appearances for the Whites.
Following Gary MacAllister’s appointment as manager, Matt was sent on loan to Colchester United and again, he would make this move permanent as soon as his loan spell had finished. During his five year stay with the “U’s” he made over 100 appearances. During his stay at Colchester, he also made loan appearances at Brighton & Hove Albion and Southend United.
On expiration of his contract, Matt moved to League 2 side Northampton Town on a six month contract.
Speaking about his new signing, manager Simon Weaver commented: We are very pleased that we have been able to bring in someone of Matt’s experience and presence. He is an excellent character and his organising at the back will be of huge benefit to the younger defenders that we have at the club.