In an extraordinary display of dedication, former Manchester United academy winger Noah Rubio travels 260 miles for every home game to help Bishop’s Cleeve chase promotion to step three of the non-league system for the first time.
The 20-year-old, who joined Bishop’s Cleeve from Rugby Town in February, has made an immediate impact with his skill and flair on the wing. Rubio’s free-kick earned a crucial 1-1 draw against Bristol Manor Farm on February 28, and he followed it up with a decisive brace in the 2-1 victory at Brixham on March 24.
Despite living in Greater Manchester, where he grew up in Oldham, Rubio is no stranger to long commutes. After leaving Manchester United’s academy, he spent six years at Rochdale and built strong Midlands connections across spells at Coventry City, Port Vale, Walsall, and Kidderminster Harriers, where he turned professional.
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“Cleeve is quite far from home, but I’m used to traveling long distances from my time at Kidderminster,” Rubio explained. “My whole family — mum Natalie, dad Rowan, and brothers Oliver and Tate — travel with me to every game. Their support means everything.”
Rubio recalls facing Manchester United and England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo during his academy days as one of his toughest challenges. However, his career highlight remains his National League debut for Kidderminster against Barnet on April 20, 2024, where he started under manager Phil Brown.
Now playing part-time this season with Bishop’s Cleeve, Rubio’s clear ambition is to return to full-time professional football. “I’m not working this season, focusing solely on football," he says. “My goal is to perform at my best and earn a pathway back to the professional ranks.”
Bishop’s Cleeve’s recent back-to-back wins against Exmouth Town and Hartpury have propelled them into fifth place, firmly in the play-off positions with just four away games remaining. Their next challenge is against Willand Rovers this Saturday.
“We’re in a great moment,” Rubio said. “We take every game as it comes and believe we can go all the way.”
A left-footed player of Spanish heritage, Rubio’s journey to Cleeve included stints at Leek Town, Worcester Raiders, and Taunton Town. His move was facilitated by Liam Harding, Cleeve’s first-team coach who had previously worked with him at Taunton.
“I had a brief spell under Liam,” Rubio said. “When I spoke with the Cleeve staff, it felt like the right place for me. Colly knows my strengths and gives me the freedom to play my game.”
Rubio’s commitment, highlighted by his arduous 260-mile round trips, exemplifies the lengths he’s willing to go to take the next step in his football career.