Fury FC Inks Northern Ireland International Jonny Steele

Ottawa Fury FC announced Tuesday the signing of Northern Ireland international and former New York Red Bulls midfielder Jonny Steele. Steele brings a wealth of MLS and NASL experience to Canada’s capital and a touch of familiarity having played under Paul Dalglish in Tampa Bay and alongside Paulo Junior at Real Salt Lake. 

“Jonny is a player who I enjoy working with,” head coach Paul Dalglish said. “He has obvious technical qualities and has a ruthless desire to win that sets really high standards not just for himself, but also for his teammates. I am excited about working with him once more.”

Steele, 29, is an attacking midfielder that has proven himself in the North American soccer circles of USL, MLS, and the NASL. The native of Larne, Northern Ireland, broke into the MLS in 2012 with Real Salt Lake debuting alongside Fury FC teammate Paulo Junior. After a season in the Western Conference, Steele moved east where his game flourished with the New York Red Bulls alongside French legend Thierry Henry. He would help the Red Bulls claim the MLS Supporters' Shield with the best record in 2013 and would feature in 48 games between the 2013 and 2014 seasons with New York.

After developing for three years with Wolverhampton Wanderers youth and reserve sides, the Northern Irishman brought his talents to the United States. His talents have been on display in over 140 games between the USL and NASL that includes stops in Rochester, Carolina, Puerto Rico, Vancouver, Tampa Bay, and most recently Minnesota. Steele led the Puerto Rico Islanders to a regular season championship (2008) and in the process was named USL MVP.

Steele has featured in the Northern Ireland national team program from U-16 through to the sneior side.