Cambridge United have announced the loan signing of Macauley Bonne from Gillingham through their official website.
The 28-year-old forward began his career at Colchester United, before making the move to Leyton Orient in the summer of 2017. In his 91 matches at Brisbane Road, the Zimbabwe international netted 45 goals and created a further nine assists.
Neil Harris, who signed the player for the Gils in the summer, will now be hoping that Bonne can add the firepower that Cambridge desperately needs. The U’s have struggled in front of goal this season, scoring only 23 goals in their first 27 matches. Their defence, especially since Harris’ appointment in December has been what has kept them above the relegation zone.
On the flip side, this is an interesting move from Gillingham. Bonne has been starting games at the Priestfield and although his goalscoring form has not been as impressive as the club will have hoped, four goals in 25 league matches, Stephen Clemence’s side are also struggling in front of goal.
Speaking about his new addition, Harris told club media “I am delighted to welcome Macauley to the Club. He comes in with a pedigree of playing and scoring at whichever league he has played in. He offers versatility and variety to our front line, he has played football this year and is fit and ready to go. I think he will compliment Lyle and Elias very, very well and I am really pleased he is now with us.”
This move follows on from Cambridge’s signing of Lyle Taylor on a free earlier in the window.
Speaking about his new boss, Bonne said “He is a manager I have wanted to work with over the years. Now the chance is here for me to work under him again it’s an opportunity I want to pursue. He knows me, he knows my style of play and knows how to get the best out of me. It’s an exciting opportunity for me.”
“I am fit and ready. I am in a good place right now to go and play football and this has come at a good time for me. There is a good group of lads and I feel like I will be a good fit,” the striker added.
Cambridge will look to get back to winning ways as they travel to Shrewsbury Town this weekend.
Writer’s View
This was a move that seemed to have come out of nowhere. On the one hand, Cambridge have added depth to their attacking options with a proven goal scorer. However, Bonne has struggled to replicate his National League form further up the pyramid.
Also, Gillingham are in dire need of improvements to their attack. Granted, the former Lincoln City loanee has failed to provide that so far, but losing him on deadline day with no obvious replacement seemingly lined up, it is a risky move.
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