David Noble to Grind out New career with the Millers

Rotherham United have confirmed that 30 year old David Noble has signed for them on a 2 year old deal. The former Exeter City captain was released by Exeter City at the end of the season, as manager Paul Tisdale did not see a future for him with the Grecians.

David Noble started his career at Arsenal, captaining their youth team to success, but was never able to make it in to the first team. He spent a short time on loan at Watford, before signing for West Ham on a free in January 2003. After making no appearances for West Ham he signed for Boston United in Division 2 under the then care of Steve Evans.

50 odd appearances for Boston and 5 goals meant Bristol City took an interest in David Noble. First taking him on loan, then signing him in January 2006. He’ll be remembered by Bristol City fans for his wondrous goal against Crystal Palce in the Championship Play-off in 2008, seen here on You Tube.

However, he suffered a serious injury, and after a short unsuccessful loan spell at Yeovil Town, Paul Tisdale took him on and aided his recuperation. He made his debut for the Grecians in August 2010 in the 2-2 draw at home to Colchester United. In his 2 seasons with Exeter City he was almost ever present. A Sending off at Brentford towards the end of the season just passed meant a 3 match suspension, and a disastrous spell for Exeter City losing all those matches and dropped City well in to the relegation mix.

He divided opinion amongst Exeter City fans. Mainly that he wasn’t Ryan Harley, but also that he had a tendency to slow the game down, getting any forward momentum stuck in midfield. Manager Paul Tisdale, famously explained earlier this year that the problem with David Noble was that the other players weren’t good enough for him!

We wish him well at promotion favourites Rotherham United, interesting that he has gone back to the despised, in football, Steve Evans.