Nico Lawrence


Nico Lawrence is an English professional footballer who plays as a centre-back.

Career

Early career

Growing up, Lawrence had spells with Fulham, Crystal Palace and Sutton United. He later joined London-based Kinetic Academy and combined that with playing for Southern Counties East Football League side Glebe. He made six league appearances for Glebe.

Southampton

In February 2022, he joined Premier League club Southampton on an 18-month contract following a successful trial. In January 2023, he extended his contract with Southampton until June 2025 and joined National League side Torquay United on loan. At Torquay, he won the Young Player of the Year award.
He joined Colchester United on loan in June 2023. On 9 August 2023, he made his professional debut as a half-time substitute in the EFL Cup match against Cardiff City. During a 3–0 victory against Gillingham, Lawrence suffered ankle ligament damage and was expected to be sidelined for several months. On 25 January 2024, he was recalled back to Southampton from loan. On 18 April 2024, Lawrence signed a new two-year contract.
On 2 August 2024, Lawrence joined Milton Keynes Dons on a season-long loan. He made his debut for the club on 10 August 2024 in a 2–1 home defeat against Bradford City. The loan spell was cut short before the end of the season with Lawrence returning to action for Southampton U21 in April 2025.
On 1 September 2025, Southampton announced that Lawrence had left the club to help him facilitate a move back into senior football.

York City

On 6 November 2025, Lawrence joined National League side York City. On 4 January 2026, he departed by mutual consent having made one appearance in the FA Trophy.

Honours