Few non-league players at step four would willingly commit to a six-hour round trip for every home game. Yet, former Manchester United academy talent Noah Rubio is doing just that to help Bishop’s Cleeve push for promotion to step three for the first time.
The 20-year-old winger joined Paul Collicutt’s squad from Rugby Town in February, quickly making his mark with dazzling performances. Rubio scored his first goal for the Mitres with a perfectly executed free-kick in a 1-1 draw against Bristol Manor Farm on February 28, followed by a brace in their 2-1 triumph at Brixham on March 24.
Originally from Oldham, Rubio continues to live in Greater Manchester and spent six years developing at Rochdale after leaving United. He built valuable ties in the Midlands during spells with Coventry City, Port Vale, Walsall, and Kidderminster Harriers—where he turned professional.
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“Cleeve is quite far from home, but most of my contacts are down this way and when I was at Kidderminster I travelled every day, so I’m used to it,” Rubio explained. “My mum (Natalie), dad (Rowan), and two brothers (Oliver and Tate) travel to every game with me and never miss one, so they’re fully committed too.”
Rubio recalls facing some top academy talent, naming Manchester United and England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as the best player he’s come up against. A career highlight was making his professional debut for Kidderminster away at Barnet in the National League on April 20, 2024, when manager Phil Brown named him in the starting XI.
Now two years on, Rubio is determined to return to professional football soon. “I’m not working this season; it’s just football, as it’s my first as a part-time player,” he said. “The main goal is to do as well as I can and get back to full-time football.”
Bishop’s Cleeve currently sit fifth with four games remaining—all away fixtures—including a Saturday clash with Willand Rovers. Back-to-back Easter weekend wins over Exmouth Town and Hartpury have positioned them firmly for the play-offs.
“We’re in a good place right now. Those wins were crucial, but we always focus on the next game once one is done,” Rubio said. “We believe we can go all the way, but the key is taking it one match at a time.”
Left-footed Rubio, who is a quarter Spanish, has also made appearances for Leek Town, Worcester Raiders, and Taunton Town. His move to Cleeve came after impressing for Sporting Club Inkberrow, with first team coach Liam Harding—who knew him from Taunton—facilitating the transfer.
“I had a short stint under Liam, and when I spoke with the Cleeve staff, it sounded like the right place for me,” he added. “Colly is a great manager who understands my strengths and lets me play with freedom.”
By embracing a 260-mile journey as part of his matchday routine, Noah Rubio exemplifies the dedication needed to take the next step in his football career.