We're pleased to announce the signing of central defender Emmanuel Onariase. The West Ham academy graduate joins after recently departing Dagenham & Redbridge.
Onariase started his footballing journey with West Ham, initially as a midfielder, before being developed into a central defender during his academy days. While on a schoolboy contract with the Hammers, he was named on the bench for their Premier League clash with Arsenal in 2015, but was an unused substitute.
Upon leaving West Ham, Onarise joined Brentford's development squad. While at Brentford, he spent time on loan with Cheltenham Town before joining Rotherham United on a permanent deal in 2017. Another loan spell at Cheltenham followed, before he joined Dagenham & Redbridge in 2018, initially on loan.
He then spent two years at Scunthorpe between 2020 and 2022, before re-joining Dagenham & Redbridge last season. He now links up with John Askey's side ahead of the National League season.
Emmanuel Onariase commented:
Delighted to sign. After speaking to the Gaffer I knew where I wanted to be. He’s building a side that wants to succeed and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.
John Askey added:
We’re delighted to bring Onariase through the door. An experienced defender who knows the league very well. We’re glad to bring him in ahead of our Scotland trip.
Manny will join Pools on their pre-season camp in Scotland ahead of the remaining pre-season fixtures.