Warrior Football announced the signing of England Under-21 international and Blackpool winger Thomas Ince in conjunction with unveiling its new control boot, Gambler.

“Thomas is a mastermind on the pitch – his ability to set it alight stems from his understanding of the game,” said Haworth. “He’s a gifted flair player who has a fearless approach, taking on and passing opponents with a rare natural ability to score goals.”

Following a stellar season at Blackpool FC which saw Ince score 18 goals and set up 15 assists in 47 appearances, the 21-year-old was recognised with five awards for his club and the prestigious Football League Player of the Year title. Ince also made it into the selected 2012/13 PFA Championship Team of the Year.

“Signing Thomas at this stage in his career is a tremendous coup for Warrior, especially as he is currently one of the hottest young properties in European football,” added Haworth. “Our player acquisition strategy focuses on identifying the next generation of world class players, who will evolve on the international stage in line with our brand growth. Thomas is destined to play at the very highest level for many years to come.”

Ince says he is looking forward to being known as a Warrior player and the season ahead wearing Gambler.

“I chose Warrior because it’s a brand that does things differently and matches my ambition. I like that it’s bold and the people behind it aren’t afraid to take risks,” he said. “I’ve been testing and playing in Gambler for a couple of months now and love it; the boot is lightweight, comfortable and gives me a feeling of complete control when I’m wearing it.”

Headlining the Gambler range is the Gambler Pro. Developed for game-changers like Ince, the Gambler Pro eliminates ‘chance’ by enabling wearers to control not just the game, but also the odds.

Designed for unparalleled control and distribution, the Gambler Pro is powered by a range of high performance technologies and features.

A specially crafted Ace Plate on the boot’s instep equips players with the means to outplay the opposition by dealing killer passes.

The High Roller rotator zone adds to the Gambler Pro’s tactical weaponry, allowing for balls and rules to be bent with deadly accuracy, while the embossed Outsider zone located on the boot’s outer tip ensures quick draw precision.

A striking checkerboard Tech Mesh outer commands uncompromised on-pitch visibility. Lightweight and supple yet still hardwearing, the mesh covers a welded Safe House foot cage to provide ultimate form and protection.

A no-stitch Royal Flush inner enables a seamless fit and all-game comfort, while the Lay-Off offset lacing system amplifies the Gambler Pro’s fit and feel.

Equipped to take control on all playing surfaces, the Gambler Pro is configured in two sole plate options: a Full House hybrid stud and blade outsole for mixed ground acceleration, and a Loaded Deck 17 blade outsole for firm ground comfort.

Headquartered in Warren, Michigan, Warrior is recognised as one of the sport industry’s leading manufacturers of innovative, high performance equipment, footwear and apparel for football, lacrosse and hockey athletes of all ages and abilities. Founded in 1992 by former champion lacrosse player David Morrow, the Warrior brand has been changing the face of sport since its inception, creating performance technology that redefines how the game is played on the pitch and, most importantly, how the game is viewed off it. Warrior was acquired by privately-held New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. in February 2004.