New Zealand international Oskar Van Hattum is the latest player to join Sligo Rovers, the club are excited to announce.
The 22-year-old winger joins from Australian A League side Wellington Phoenix and has signed a one year deal at the Showgrounds.
Van Hattum arrives at the Bit O’Red having spent his formative years in his homeland, featuring almost 50 times for Wellington’s first team, making his professional debut against Western United as a 19-year-old in 2021.
He has also represented New Zealand at various underage levels, making his senior debut against Solomon Islands during the 2024 OFC Men’s Nations Cup, a tournament which he and his Kiwi team mates went on to win.
Van Hattum was also part of the New Zealand U23 side which competed at last year’s Paris Olympics. He is Rovers boss John Russell’s second signing of the week following the arrival of goalkeeper Sam Sargeant.
Primarily a right sided plyer, Oskar’s versatility means he can operate on either flank and is also comfortable competing as a striker or a ten. He has also filled in at right back on occasion.
“I’m direct, I like to get in behind and drive at defenders”, he tells sligorovers.com.
“I can play in a few different positions so I’m looking forward to helping the team in any way I can. We want a European spot and we want trophies. But that’s down the line. For now, I’m just looking forward to meeting everyone and getting off to a good start against Waterford.”
Van Hattum is the latest player from the Pacific island to join the club following successful stints for compatriots Ryan De Vries, Nando Pijnaker and Max Mata in recent years. Contact with the latter was part of his research on Ireland before he made the decision to relocate half-way around the world. Oskar says fellow striker Mata played his part in convincing him that a move to Rovers was the right one.
“The transfer is one that’s been in the works for the better part of a month really and I’m thrilled to get the deal done”, he beamed.
“I know the club has a big history, particularly in the fairly recent past and I can’t wait to get going and try and make more history here.
“The Irish league wouldn’t be too accessible from New Zealand but that just makes things more exciting for me. I spoke to Max and he only had positive things to say about the club, Sligo, the people and the people who run the club.
“I see a pathway there and I can’t wait to jump in. The A League and both the Australian and New Zealand national teams have grown the last few years and that’s why you see so many players moving from there to Europe. Max, Nando and Ryan are examples of players who have seized their chances and they’ve expanded their profiles from here. I want to do that too.”
Speaking about his latest addition, manager Russell says Van Hattum’s versatility will be a key asset for Rovers who continue preparations for the upcoming campaign.
“Oskar is primarily a right winger but is comfortable playing across the front line where he will bring pace, power and directness to the team”, he explains.
“I feel his attributes will suit our league and it’s always vital to have players who can play in several positions. His work rate is excellent and I know he is very motivated by the challenge of playing in Europe.
“We’ve had good success bringing players in from New Zealand in recent years and we’re hoping Oskar can make a big impact at the club.”
David Goulden
Photo credit: McIntosh/Photomac