Dynamo Nico’s heading back home

By Neil Harvey

MOVE: Defreitas-Hansen

FORMER Atherton Collieries goalkeeper Nico Defreitas-Hansen is heading for pastures new – after joining top Major League Soccer side Houston Dynamo 2.

The American born 22-year-old joined Colls in August 2022 and went on to make 52 appearances for the NPL Premier club, keeping 12 clean sheets.

Defreitas-Hansen began his youth career with Florida-based Weston FC before departing for the UK to sign his first professional contract with Everton’s youth set-up in 2017.

After featuring a number of times for the Toffees’ Under 18s and U23s squads, he joined Swansea City to link up with their U21 side.

Defreitas-Hansen has also made his mark on the international stage, representing the USA at U14s and U16s level as well as winning three caps for the Denmark Under 19 side.

Now the 6ft 2in goalkeeper has made the move back across the Atlantic to link up with Houston Dynamo’s reserve team after signing an MLS Next Pro contract for the 2024 season, with an option to extend for 2025.

On bringing Defreitas-Hansen to the Shell Energy Stadium, Dynamo assistant general manager Nick Kowba said: “He is a promising player that wants to continue his development in Houston.

“We look forward to watching him compete for minutes this season.”