Veteran striker becomes latest Morecambe new recruit

Experienced striker Joe Garner has been announced as Morecambe FC’s latest signing.

The 38-year-old joins the club on a one-year deal with an option of a further year, subject to the necessary league and FA approvals.

Garner has enjoyed a distinguished professional career spanning almost two decades across the English Football League, Scotland and European football.

A product of Blackburn Rovers’ academy, Garner began his senior career with his hometown club before going on to enjoy successful spells with the likes of Carlisle United, Nottingham Forest, Watford, Preston North End, amongst other clubs.

Throughout his career, Garner has made well over 600 senior appearances and scored more than 180 goals.

One of the standout periods of his career came at Preston North End, where he fired the Lilywhites to promotion from League One in 2015 after finishing as the division’s top scorer and being named the League One Player of the Year.

Garner has continued to enjoy success in the latter stages of his career, helping Carlisle United secure promotion through the League Two Play-Offs in 2023 before playing his part in Oldham Athletic’s return to the English Football League via the National League Play-Offs in 2025.

Manager Adam Lakeland said: “I'm delighted to bring Joe to Morecambe FC. The career he's had speaks for itself, but despite everything he has achieved, playing for top clubs and winning promotions, I still see someone who relishes competing, hates losing, loves scoring goals and has an unwavering desire to win football matches.

“That competitive edge and enthusiasm for the game are just two of the reasons he's still performing at such a high level, and why he was able to make such a positive impact in League Two last season.”

“I believe Joe will have a hugely positive influence both on and off the pitch for us. While he may not play 90 minutes in every game across the season, whenever he is on the pitch he will be a real handful for defenders, giving us a focal point in attack and creating opportunities for the players around him.”

“Away from the pitch, his character, professionalism and wealth of experience will only strengthen our environment.

‘’He will help drive the standards we expect every day and provide invaluable guidance for the younger players in the squad, particularly our attacking players, who have so much they can learn from him.

‘’I'm really looking forward to working with him and seeing the impact he'll have on this group.”

After completing his move to the Shrimps, Garner said: "It's a massive club and we're looking to push on this year to get out of the league. We know it will be difficult, but we'll give it our best shot."

"I'm happy everything has been done so fast, so I can get out there with the lads. It's going to a massive pre-season."