Striker Paddy Madden joined the club from Airtricity League side Bohemians on a two-and-a-half year deal on January transfer deadline day in 2011.

Dublin-born Paddy began his youth career with Bohemians, progressing through the ranks at Dalymount Park to make his first team debut on the 8 November 2008, coming on as a substitute against Cobh Ramblers.

He joined fellow Irish club Shelbourne on-loan in February 2009 to gain some valuable first team experience. His brief spell at Tolka Park was a successful one, scoring eight goals in 16 appearances.

On his return to Bohs, Paddy began to establish himself in the first team, scoring his first goal for The Gypsies against Derry City in a 1-0 victory. After a good first season for Bohemians, Paddy made his debut for the Republic of Ireland U21s in a match against Armenia, coming on as a 65th minute substitute in a 4-1 defeat.

Madden really began to pick up his form in the 2010 season, and was rewarded for his good performances in June that year when he picked up the Airtricity / Soccer Writers Association of Ireland Player of the Month award after scoring six goals in three starts and one substitute appearance.

In his time at Bohemians, Paddy won the 2009 League of Ireland Premier Division and 2009/10 Setanta Cup. His impressive performances didn't go unnoticed and he was linked with several English and Scottish clubs, including Burnley, Derby and SPL giants Celtic.

Despite strong interest from the Parkhead outfit, it was United who made the move to bring Madden over the Irish sea, signing him for an undisclosed fee on January transfer deadline day 2011.

Arriving during the Irish close season, Madden's appearances during his first few months for the club came mostly from the bench but his energetic performances were rewarded on the final day of the 2010/11 season when he was handed his full debut against Yeovil Town.

A pacey forward with a good eye for goal, Paddy will be looking to break into the first team starting line-up this season and continue his impressive progress to date.

Under contract until the summer of 2013.

Paddy is sponsored by Sandra Brown.

For more details on our Player and Coaching Staff sponsors for the 2011/12 season, click here.