FOOTBALL-Former Jamaica defender makes a move to Wealdstone.

LONDON, CMC – Wealdstone manager Matt Taylor said he expects former Jamaica defender Adrian Mariappa to play an essential role in defense for the club during the coming English National League season.

As the club is known, the Stones signed the 37-year-old former Watford, Crystal Palace, and Jamaica defender after he left English League 2 club Salford City last month.

Taylor hailed Mariappa’s pedigree. In his 19-year career, he has played more than 500 club matches, including for Reading, Bristol City, and Burton Albion. He has also played over 60 times for the Reggae Boyz, the Jamaica men’s national team. He has played in the Concacaf Gold Cup and World Cup qualifiers.

“Adrian has a fantastic pedigree, and for us to secure his signature is a huge bonus for the football club,” Taylor said in a comment on the Wealdstone website.

“He will be a big character within the squad, and his leadership skills will be vital for the upcoming season.”

Mariappa began his professional career at Watford, where he graduated from the club’s academy and made his senior debut in 2005.

He quickly established himself as a reliable and versatile defender and made nearly 250 appearances for the Hornets over seven years, becoming a fan favorite.

Mariappa signed in 2012 with English Premier League side Reading, where he continued to impress despite the club’s eventual relegation. His performances caught the eye of Crystal Palace, leading to a move to Selhurst Park the following year.

At Palace, Mariappa was a crucial part of the squad, helping the team maintain its Premier League status over several seasons. He made 167 appearances in the EPL throughout his career.

After briefly returning to Watford in 2016, Mariappa demonstrated his unwavering consistency and leadership. In his second stint at Vicarage Road, he made another 97 appearances, underscoring his importance to the team.

Following his time at Watford, Mariappa joined Bristol City and Burton Albion before moving to Salford City, where his experience continued to shine in League 2.