James Russell

James Russell is an ex Republic of Ireland International

Born in Welyn Garden City, James was originally a schoolboy at Arsenal academy before signing for Chelsea at the age of fourteen.

He then went on to sign a two year apprenticeship at Chelsea before signing professional forms at aged nineteen. During this season James become an International goalkeeper being called up by and representing the Republic Of Ireland under 21's on two occasions versus Slovakia and Portugal respectively.

After five years and a combined total of 46 competitive matches for both Chelsea's youth team and reserves, James joined Stevenage borough in the Blue Square Premier. In his first season at Stevenage, James missed out on the playoffs by one point. He was then loaned out to Ryman side Canvey Island where he helped push the club up the league which ended in a promotion via the playoffs.

With a new manager appointed at Stevenage and the arrival of two senior goalkeepers opportunities were extremely limited for James at the start of the 08/09 season. After couple of loan moves to Halesowen Town and Arseley Town respectively James completed a free transfer to Arseley where he made 36 appearances and helped the club avoid relegation on the last day of the season.

Having been managed by and trained with the likes of Brendan Rodgers, Mick Mcgiven, Don Givens, Mark Beeney, Petr Cech, Carlo Cudicini, Henrique Hillario and Neil Sullivan, James has picked up a unique blend of styles and techniques which can only benefit the young goalkeepers in the Hertfordshire area.

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