We are delighted to announce two additions to the Luton Town goalkeeping department with teenagers Henry Blackledge and Oliver Camis joining the Hatters’ development squad.
Blackledge is an 18-year-old Australian who had trials with the Hatters and Brentford towards the end of last year.
After impressing the Hatters goalkeeping coaches during that time he has now put pen to paper at Kenilworth Road.
Born in Ipswich, 30 minutes from Brisbane, Blackledge began his career with Western Pride in Australia’s third tier, making his senior debut as a 15-year-old.
He then moved to second-tier Brisbane Olympic in June but as soon as their season finished in September last year, he signed for A-League outfit Brisbane Roar.
Head of goalkeeping Kevin Pilkington said: “Henry impressed us for the week-and-a-half he was with us. He’s technically very good and he’s showed ambition by leaving his family behind in Australia to join us.
“There’s stuff we’ll work on, but he’s only 18, and we’re excited to have him and work on his development.”
Camis, also 18, is a current Wales Under-19 international who also recently signed a professional development contract with Town after impressing on trial.
Having started off in Chelsea’s academy up to the age of 14, Camis spent three years with Bournemouth up to the end of last season and has been selected by his country at all age groups from U15 to 19s.
Academy goalkeeper coach Albert Bell said: “Oliver was recommended to us by the head of academy goalkeeping at Bournemouth in the summer and we brought him in on trial.
“He’s a good shot-stopper and is good with his distribution over various distances. He’s really fitted in with the different players he’s played with in games for the Under-18s and 21s in recent weeks, and we’re looking forward to seeing how he develops with us here full-time.”
We welcome both Henry and Oliver to Luton Town!