Who is Matt Crooks? Matt Crooks is a versatile footballer whose journey has taken him from Huddersfield Town's reserves to the bright lights of Major League Soccer with Real Salt Lake, and back to England with Hull City. Born in the early 1990s, Crooks has played pivotal roles in various clubs, earning accolades like the EFL Championship Player of the Month and spots in the PFA Team of the Year. Beyond the pitch, he's a Manchester United fan, an epilepsy awareness advocate, and a charitable figure. His career, marked by crucial goals and community involvement, makes him a standout in the football world.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Matt Crooks's journey in football began at a young age, and his early experiences shaped the player he is today.
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Full Name and Birth: Matt Davidson Rider Crooks was born in the early 1990s, though the exact date remains unspecified.
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Early Footballing Career: Crooks started his football journey at Huddersfield Town, playing in the reserve team before making his first-team debut in 2014.
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Loan Spells: To gain more experience, Crooks was loaned out to FC Halifax Town and Hartlepool United, where he made significant contributions.
Rise to Prominence
Crooks's career took off as he moved through various clubs, showcasing his talent and versatility.
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Accrington Stanley: In the 2015-2016 season, Crooks made 10 appearances and scored 6 goals for Accrington Stanley, earning a spot in the PFA Team of the Year for League Two.
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Northampton Town: Crooks joined Northampton Town in 2017 and scored his first competitive goal just 21 seconds into a game against Doncaster Rovers, one of the quickest in Sixfields Stadium history.
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Rotherham United: At Rotherham United, Crooks's performance in January 2021 earned him the EFL Championship Player of the Month award, helping the team gain promotion to the Championship.
Middlesbrough and Memorable Moments
Crooks's time at Middlesbrough was marked by crucial goals and memorable performances.
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Middlesbrough Move: On July 23, 2021, Crooks joined Middlesbrough, quickly becoming a key player.
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First Goal for Middlesbrough: He scored his first goal for the club in a 2-1 win against Bristol City.
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Pivotal Goals: Crooks scored a stoppage-time winner against Reading and a late equalizer against Manchester United in an FA Cup fourth-round tie.
Transition to MLS and Return to England
Crooks's career took an international turn before he returned to English football.
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Real Salt Lake: In February 2024, Crooks joined Real Salt Lake in MLS, making an immediate impact with an assist on his debut and scoring the winning goal in a 4-3 victory against Sporting Kansas City.
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Hull City: On January 10, 2025, Crooks returned to England, signing with Hull City. He debuted as an 83rd-minute substitute in a 1-0 win against Millwall and scored his first goal for the club in a 3-0 win against Sheffield United.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Beyond football, Crooks is known for his personal challenges and charitable work.
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Manchester United Fan: Crooks is a lifelong Manchester United fan.
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Epilepsy Diagnosis: Diagnosed with epilepsy at 18, Crooks works with the Peter Doody Foundation to normalize the condition and reduce stigma.
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Charitable Work: He is the Vice Chair and Trustee of The Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust, supporting various charitable causes.
Career Statistics and Honors
Crooks's career statistics and honors reflect his consistent performance and contributions to his teams.
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Career Statistics: As of January 24, 2025, Crooks has made 350 appearances and scored 67 goals.
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Honors and Awards: Crooks has been part of the PFA Team of the Year for League Two in 2015-2016 and League One in 2019-2020. He also contributed to Rotherham United's promotion to the Championship in 2019-2020.
Playing Style and Fan Base
Crooks's versatility and connection with fans have made him a beloved figure in football.
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Playing Style: Known for his versatility, Crooks can play in multiple positions, praised for his intensity and crucial contributions.
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Fan Base: Crooks has a special bond with Middlesbrough fans, who fondly remember his crucial goals and performances.
Transfer History and Debut Goals
Crooks's dynamic transfer history and knack for scoring debut goals highlight his adaptability and impact.
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Transfer History: Crooks has moved from Huddersfield Town to various clubs, including Northampton Town, Rotherham United, Middlesbrough, Real Salt Lake, and Hull City.
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Debut Goals: Crooks has scored several debut goals, including one of the quickest in match history for Northampton Town and his first goal for Middlesbrough in a 2-1 win against Bristol City.
Pivotal Moments and FA Cup Performances
Crooks's career is dotted with pivotal moments and significant FA Cup performances.
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Pivotal Moments: One of the most notable moments was his stoppage-time winner against Reading in 2022, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
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FA Cup Performances: Crooks's late equalizer against Manchester United in an FA Cup fourth-round tie helped Middlesbrough win the match on penalties.
MLS Impact and Goal-Scoring Record
Crooks's impact in MLS and his consistent goal-scoring record demonstrate his talent and adaptability.
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MLS Debut: Crooks made an immediate impact in MLS with Real Salt Lake, providing an assist on his debut and scoring pivotal goals.
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Goal-Scoring Record: As of January 2025, Crooks has scored 67 goals across his career, showcasing his ability to find the net consistently.
Awards and Team Successes
Crooks's individual awards and team successes highlight his contributions to football.
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Awards and Recognition: Crooks received the EFL Championship Player of the Month award in January 2021 for his consistent contributions to Rotherham United.
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Team Successes: Crooks has been part of several successful teams, including Rotherham United's promotion to the Championship and Middlesbrough's FA Cup run.
Overcoming Challenges and Advocacy
Crooks's resilience in overcoming challenges and his advocacy work make him a role model.
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Injury History: Crooks has faced injuries, including an ankle injury at Huddersfield Town, but has shown resilience in overcoming setbacks.
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Epilepsy Awareness: Crooks advocates for epilepsy awareness, working with the Peter Doody Foundation to normalize the condition and reduce stigma.
Charitable Involvement and Fan Favorite
Crooks's charitable involvement and status as a fan favorite reflect his character and impact off the field.
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Charitable Involvement: In addition to the Peter Doody Foundation, Crooks is involved with The Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust, supporting various charitable causes.
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Fan Favorite: Widely regarded as a fan favorite at Middlesbrough, Crooks's performances and personality have endeared him to the fanbase, making him a beloved figure within the Riverside community.
Matt Crooks: A Remarkable Journey
Matt Crooks has carved out a notable career in football, marked by versatility and resilience. From his early days at Huddersfield Town to his impactful performances at Middlesbrough and Rotherham United, Crooks has consistently shown his ability to adapt and excel. His move to Real Salt Lake in the MLS and subsequent return to Hull City highlight his dynamic career path. Beyond football, Crooks's advocacy for epilepsy awareness and involvement in charitable causes like the Peter Doody Foundation and The Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust showcase his commitment to making a difference off the pitch. With 350 appearances and 67 goals to his name, Crooks's legacy is defined by both his on-field achievements and his dedication to important causes. His journey continues to inspire fans and fellow players alike.
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