Aaron Harper-Bailey (born 29 September 2001) is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender for Drogheda United in the League of Ireland Premier Division.

Aaron Harper-Bailey
Personal information
Date of birth (2001-09-29) 29 September 2001 (age 23)[1]
Place of birth Smethwick
Height 1.94 m (6 ft 4 in)
Position(s) Defender
Team information
Current team
Drogheda United
Number 5
Youth career
0000–2022 Rushall Olympic
2022–2024 West Bromwich Albion
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
2022–2024 West Bromwich Albion 0 (0)
2024Kidderminster Harriers (loan) 2 (0)
2024 Drogheda United 3 (0)
*Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 10:00, 28 August 2024 (UTC)

Club career

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Youth years

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In July 2022, Harper-Bailey joined National League North club Rushall Olympic following a successful pre-season trial during which he impressed the coaching team.[2] Just under 2 months later, his performance earned him a transfer to EFL Championship club West Bromwich Albion. He made over 28 appearances for the club's U23 team.[3] Becoming a regular starter for the youth side in Premier League 2.[4] Harper-Bailey left the club in late June following the expiration of his contract.[5] He never made a senior appearance for the Baggies.[5]

Kidderminster Harriers (loan)

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On 26 January 2024, Harper-Bailey joined on an initial one-month loan.[3] The player made 2 appearances for the Harriers during his short time at the club, featuring against Oxford City and Gateshead . Harper-Bailey returned to West Bromwich Albion on 23 February of the same year, following the end of his loan.[6]

Drogheda United

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On 29 July 2024, Harper-Bailey signed a permanent deal with Drogheda United (Irish: Cumann Peile Dhroichead Átha Aontaithe)[4]

following the expiration of his contract at West Brom.[5] He currently wears number 5 for the League of Ireland Premier Division club.

Harper-Bailey made his debut for Drogheda on 16 August 2024 as a substitute in a 9-0 FAI Cup third round win against Wilton United.

Style of play

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Harper-Bailey is a left-footed Defender with strong physical attributes.[7]

Honours

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Drogheda United

References

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  1. ^ "Aaron Harper-Bailey: Overview". Premier League. Archived from the original on 22 January 2024. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  2. ^ "Player News: Dream Move for Harper-Bailey as Pics Provide Platform". Rushall Olympic. 8 September 2022. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  3. ^ a b "Harper-Bailey boosts defence". Kidderminster Harriers. 26 January 2024. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  4. ^ a b "Drogheda sign Aaron Harper-Bailey from West Brom". LM FM. 29 July 2024. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  5. ^ a b c "Free agent lands new home following West Brom exit". The 72. 30 July 2024. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  6. ^ "Aaron Harper-Bailey returns from Kidderminster Harriers loan". West Bromwich Albion. 23 February 2024. Archived from the original on 18 April 2024. Retrieved 28 August 2024.
  7. ^ "Signing: Emerging Defender Snapped up Following Impressive Pre Season". Rushall Olympic. 27 July 2022. Archived from the original on 27 July 2022. Retrieved 28 August 2024.