Peterborough United has secured the signing of former Celtic and West Ham Academy defender Justin Osagie on a one-year deal.
The 19-year-old impressed during a recent trial period and will join the club’s Under-21 squad, though manager Darren Ferguson has high expectations for his future.
Osagie’s Journey to Peterborough
Osagie, who developed his skills in West Ham United’s Academy after an initial stint at Southend United, moved to Celtic before his release this past season. Despite initial plans for him to bolster Peterborough’s younger squads, Ferguson has earmarked him for significant first-team involvement.
“Our recruitment team were aware of Justin for a number of years,” Ferguson explained. “He moved up to Celtic and was released at the end of the season. He came in to train with us and has done very well, extremely impressive.”
Initially, the central defence wasn’t a target for Peterborough, given the presence of young talents like Ollie Rose and Jenson Sumnall. However, Osagie’s trial performances made an impact on Ferguson, who saw enough potential to warrant a signing.
“It was a case of we must sign the boy because he is a talented kid,” Ferguson added. “He is quick, aggressive, very good on the ball, lovely attitude and really keen on signing, which I think is because of the pathway we have up to the first team.”
What Osagie Brings to the Team
Ferguson described Osagie as both versatile and driven, with notable technical skills and speed on the ball. His attitude and readiness to embrace Peterborough’s development pathway were significant factors in securing the deal. While Osagie will begin with the Under-21s, he is expected to regularly train with the first team, giving him early exposure to a higher level of play and potentially accelerating his path to senior football.
Writer’s View
Peterborough’s signing of Justin Osagie reflects a proactive approach to talent acquisition. With a track record spanning top academies, Osagie’s experience is likely to bolster Peterborough’s defence depth. The club’s developmental pathway provides a promising platform, and Ferguson’s optimism suggests he may be one to watch as he progresses within the squad.
Editor In Chief
