Simmons eyes pro contract with English club
Angelo Simmons yesterday returned to English non-league side Carshalton United to make a push for a contract after being invited back to the club for pre-season training.Simmons, who will miss the remainder of Bermuda Hogges’ campaign, was unable to play for United’s first team last term after missing the transfer deadline but did feature for their reserves.Ex-Bermuda Football Association (BFA) technical director Derek Broadley recommended the Boulevard winger to Carshalton which begin their pre-season programme next week.Simmons, 24, said he had been training with top Bermuda coaches Andrew Bascome and Kenny Thompson to maintain his fitness.“I have spoken to the coach in the past few days and he’s looking forward to me coming back and getting ready for the season,” said Simmons. “It will be nice to get back out there with the boys and train.“I went out there last time without really knowing what would be required of me, but now that I’ve been there I’m looking to be more focused and have been staying fit while home in playing with the Bermuda Hogges and training with Andrew Bascome and Kenny Thompson.”Carshalton, a semi-pro side, allowed Simmons to play for Hogges this summer, home games only, with the provision he returned to the side this month to finalise contract talks.Simmons, who scored one goal in three Hogges appearances this term, said he would fulfill a lifelong dream by putting pen-to-paper on his first contract.“Signing a contract would be great; it’s something I have always wanted,” he said. “I’ve had chances before but the opportunities have slipped out of my hands, but it feels good to get another chance and this time hopefully get the deal and fulfil the dream.“I always wanted to play professionally but I still have ambitions of going higher and that is my goal.”London-based Carshalton play in the Isthmian League Premier Division.
