| Daniel Cleary | |
|---|---|
| |
| Personal information | |
| Date of Birth |
9 March 1996 |
| Place of Birth |
Dublin, Republic of Ireland |
| Position |
Defender |
| Liverpool statistics | |
| Years |
2011-2016 |
| Appearances |
0 |
| Goals |
0 |
Daniel Cleary (born 9 March 1996) is an Irish footballer who played as a defender for Liverpool, but mainly for the Liverpool U21s from 2011 to 2016.
Liverpool career[]
Liverpool agreed a deal to sign the young Irish centre back Cleary in the summer of 2011 from Irish club side, Crumlin United. The deal saw Cleary stay in Ireland until January 2012, after which he made the switch to Merseyside. Cleary stated that it was an 'unreal feeling' to sign for the Reds, and spoke kindly about meetings he had with the likes of Kenny Dalglish and Steven Gerrard. Cleary was initially based with the Under 16s, however he was promoted to the Under 18s for the 2012-13 season. He first appeared for the side in 2012-13 pre season friendly games and made his competitive debut on 18 August 2012 in a 3-3 draw against Wolves. Cleary almost helped his side claim all three points as he won a penalty in the last minute of the game, however striker Jerome Sinclair failed to convert it. Cleary established himself well in the U18s central defence, amassing 16 appearances during the season. He followed this up by topping the appearance chart for the U18s in their 2013-14 season, racking up 30 games and netting three goals as he formed a steady central defensive partnership with Tom Brewitt.
On 10 June 2016 it was confirmed that Cleary had been released by the club after his contract expired.
Playing style[]
Cleary is capable of operating at either right back or centre back and is noted as a strong, aggressive defender. He is also commended as a gifted ball player who is able to work the ball forwards from the backline.