“Dream Come True” as Marcus Rashford signs for Athlone Town

Paul McRingo – Sports Correspondent

League of Ireland club Athlone Town have arranged a press conference for this afternoon where they are expected to announce the signing of Marcus Rashford.

The first division outfit had been trying to keep the news quiet until now but the man himself was spotted at Dublin Airport this morning and when questioned, he confirmed it’s a done deal.

“I keep pinching myself to make sure this is really happening.” said Rashford. “Finally, I’m Athlone bound. It’s a childhood dream come true. Even when things were going well for me at United I must admit I was always dreaming that one day I would play for Athlone. This is why you become a footballer. To test yourself on the biggest stage of all, the second tier of the League of Ireland.”

Rashford said he can’t wait to move to the midlands of Ireland and to immerse himself in the local culture.

“Growing up in Manchester you read about places like Kilbeggan and Moate but you don’t dare to dream that you might actually get to live there one day. In my house in Manchester I have a huge picture of Tullamore’s stunning O’Connor Square in my living room and kept telling myself ‘One day Marcus, one day.’ Well that day has arrived. The missus said she can’t wait to go shopping in Athlone’s world famous Golden Island Shopping Centre.”

Rashford is expected to be in Athlone’s starting line up for tomorrow night’s away fixture against Kerry FC in Tralee.