It was another exciting Tuesday for the Owls, as Union Omaha signed defensive midfielder Nortei Nortey.
The 29-year-old Englishman comes to Omaha after spending two seasons with fellow USL League One club Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC. In the last two seasons, Nortey was a consistent piece of Hailstorm’s midfield, collecting over 4,400 minutes across 50 starts and 56 appearances. 2023 was a particularly strong year, as he helped the club allow the fewest goals in the league while simultaneously amassing the greatest goal differential in the league, as well.
Nortey is the first midfielder that Union Omaha has signed in 2024 and his talent should not be overlooked. While typically playing a more defensive role in the midfield, his passing is highly-rated, even in the opponent’s half. Most of his passes move forward, while also balancing his left to right distribution. With the midfield veterans returning to Union Omaha’s roster in 2024, the 5’11″ midfielder will provide a great layer of depth, allowing his teammates to progress up the field, utilize their individual strengths, and create chances in the offensive third.
Before arriving in America, Nortey started his playing career in Chelsea’s academy before moving on to play at other clubs throughout the United Kingdom. Some of those clubs include Wrexham, Dover Athletic, and Chorley. After playing a season in the Scottish Championship with Queen of the South, Nortey was signed by Northern Colorado and started playing in USL League One in 2022.
In Union Omaha’s press release, head coach Dominic Casciato expressed his excitement for Nortey’s signing. “Nortei is a quality, experienced midfielder that’s got a good range of passing and great leadership skills,” said Union Omaha Head Coach Dominic Casciato. “He’s coming off a good second season with Northern Colorado, where he was a captain and established himself as one of the best midfielders in the league. We look forward to the impact he will have in our locker room, on the field and in our community as we work together to build on the success we achieved in 2023.”
The press release included a quote from Nortey, as well. “I’m very excited to be a part of the Union Omaha family,” Nortey said. “Already looking forward to working with my new teammates, the coaching staff, everyone involved at the club and, of course, meeting all our fans. I can’t wait to get started!”
Union Omaha’s 2024 home opener is on April 20th as they welcome a rematch of 2023 USL League One Playoff Semifinals foe Charlotte Independence. Make sure you have your ticket for this much-anticipated match. Season ticket memberships and voucher packs are available at the club website or through the Ticket Office by calling 402-738-5100.
Stay tuned for more Union Omaha announcements ahead of the 2024 USL League One Regular Season. Who Gives A Hoot Media is here to give you all of the Union Omaha insights, announcements, profiles, statistical breakdowns, and new episodes of the podcast. As always…¡Viva Búhos!
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