Adams caught Merrick’s eye during a week-long trial in Wellington and has been given a obne-year professional contract, with the option of a second year.
Merrick says the 19-year-old defender is the type of player he wants to give opportunities to.
“Luke has been a stand out at training and fits into our plans for the squad, both as a player and a person,” Merrick says.
“He has proved himself at international level with the New Zealand under 17s and under 20s, not just as a player but as a leader through being captain of both teams. Luke ticks all the boxes and that is what we are about.
I want to help develop young New Zealand players while at the same time signing the right players for the Phoenix.”
Adams is keen to prove his coach has made the right decision in adding him to his side.
“I’m just delighted that the Phoenix have given me a professional contract. It’s a great opportunity and I will be giving it everything to prove I deserve it,” Adams says.
“I am looking forward to working under Ernie. He is very honest. He tells you what he expects and explains what you need to do to achieve it.”
Adams career has seen him bounce between New Zealand and Europe since he made his debut for Waitakere United at 15, becoming one of the youngest players to appear in the national competition.
He has had two spells with English club Birmingham City including a three-match tour of Slovakia with its U-18 side. While on trial at English Championship side Derby County Adams sustained a serious knee injury but had already impressed enough for the club to give him a one-year contract once he had recovered.
Released by Derby, Adams is now determined to make an impression with the Phoenix knowing that could help him make the next step up on the international stage with the All Whites.
“That would be great but all I am focusing on now is doing well at the Phoenix,” he says.
“I’ve only been there a few days but the senior players have made me feel really welcome so I’m looking forward to the coming season.”
Adams joins his national U-20 teammates Tyler Boyd and Louis Fenton at the Phoenix as well as a number of others players in the reserve squad including Hamish Watson, Justin Gulley and Tom Biss.
For more on New Zealand Football visit www.nzfootball.co.nz

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