Mariners trial Umina local

The Central Coast Mariners have gained the services of Umina local and former Leeds United player Jamie McMaster on short term deal.

Jamie McMaster, who turned 23 last month, has represented England at youth level although Australian-born.

He has returned to his hometown to start a career that has seen him arrive at Central Coast Stadium via AGF Aarhus in Denmark.

Prior to his stint in Scandanavia, Jamie experienced a decorated career in England's lower leagues, including stays at Coventry City, Chesterfield, Swindon Town and Peterborough, most of which were on loan from former UEFA Champions League semi finalists Leeds United.

While at Elland Rd, McMaster was one of seven Australians wearing the white, blue and yellow, a group that also included Socceroo pair Harry Kewell and Mark Viduka.

Jamie McMaster's main attention on the world stage came in 1999, when he debuted for England at the Under-16 European Championship qualifiers in Paphos, Cyprus.

He then netted the winner for the English in their 2 to 1 win over Armenia.

"Jamie's been trialling with us for a little while now and he's looking sharper each time he takes to the training pitch," said Mariners football manager Lawrie McKinna.

"There's no doubting that the boy has got talent and adding him to our squad gives him the chance to show his home town just how capable he is."

Press release, December 29 Benjamin Coonan, Central Coast Mariners