JUNIORS SIGN BURNLEY DEAL

BANBRIDGE Town Juniors have secured a tie-up with Burnley Football Club.

Burnley will continue to work closely with Banbridge in an on-going youth coaching and player assessment role to identify any future talent at the Irish Championship club.

It comes after Burney captured the services of one of Northern Ireland's top young striking talents with the signing of teenager Shay McCartan.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 16-year-old, who was with Glenavon but was previously with Banbridge Town Juniors, will start his Turf Moor career as a first-year scholar next season.

The Lancashire club has already nurtured the talents of Northern Ireland international Kyle Lafferty and now Shea will want to progress in the same manner as he did.

Clarets' director of youth Martin Dobson said: "Seamus came onto our scouting radar and we have had him and his parents over here a number of times.

"He was very sought-after and is a talented player who we feel has a future in the game.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"There was a lot of competition from other clubs so we are delighted to have got him and we look forward to working with him in the youth set-up here at Turf Moor."

Dobson added: "We are very grateful for the assistance and co-operation of his clubs, who have been very honest and open during negotiations.

"We have built up a good relationship with Banbridge Town which we hope will continue to be beneficial to the two clubs."

McCartan spent several years with County Down-based club Banbridge before linking up with Irish Premier League side Glenavon last season.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Clarets have agreed a compensation fee with both Banbridge and Glenavon for McCartan, an Northern Ireland under-16 international and player of the tournament for County Down at last summer's prestigious Milk Cup tournament in Coleraine, where Burnley were also competing.

Meanwhile Banbridge Town Juniors are on the lookout for players to join their new Academy.

Do you think you are good enough to play for the Juniors? If so come along to their trials at Banbridge Academy on Tuesday June 1 and Tuesday June 8 for players born in 2000/2001 and Wednesday June 2 and Wednesday June 9 for players born in 1998/1999. Sessions will also be held on Thursday June 3 and Thursday June 10 for players born in 1995/1996/1997.

Sessions run from 6.30-8pm and kids attending are asked to wear shinguards, wear suitable clothing and a pair of football boots and to bring a bottle of water.

Related topics: