NEW SIGNING Ruben Lameiras is hoping to bring flair and creativity to the Sky Blues after joining following a successful trial over pre-season.
The 20-year-old moves to the Ricoh Arena on a free transfer having impressed Tony Mowbray during the friendly matches against Nuneaton Town and Portsmouth.
The Portuguese playmaker revealed that a conversation with former Sky Blues loan star Grant Ward, who made eight appearances last season, was pivotal in his decision to join the Sky Blues.
Both players were part of Tottenham Hotspur’s youth setup and now Lameiras is confident he can become a player that will excite fans after signing a two-year deal.
“Grant is one of my closest friends,” said Lameiras,” who can play in a variety of positions across the forward line and midfield.
“He really enjoyed it here and I spoke to him about the club and the set-up.
“He gave the club a glowing reference and based on his review, I thought I should definitely come down and I’m pleased I had that chat with him.
“I’m just looking forward to getting some games and achieving something big for the club this season.
“I’ve got on well with the lads and the manager is always telling me things I can do to improve. He’s been a big help from day one.
“Being on trial, I’ve looked at it as a way to showcase what I can do, without pressure. I knew some of the boys from before and I’ve loved every minute, I think I’ve done well but I can always improve.
“I’m a player that likes to create things, I want to get fans off their seats and I want to turn that into goals and assists this season.”
Lisborn-born Lameiras joined Spurs’ Academy in June 2011 before signing a professional deal with the Premier League club in June 2014.
After several appearances for the Under-21s, Lameiras spent time with Swedish Allsvensken side Atvidabergs in March where he made 14 appearances in the Swedish top flight.
Mowbray added: “In the games he has played with us, he has been bright and carries a real threat on the ball, like he showed in the second-half against Portsmouth.
“He’s got a great work ethic and whilst we know he isn’t the finished article, we see plenty of potential for him to progress with us and make an impact.
“Ruben can play central or on the wings so once again, we’ve got another player who can be a valuable option for us across the park.”
