Shay pays Co Down teams visit

BURNLEY striker Shay McCartan went back to his roots by visiting the current County Down Milk Cup squads at the Parents’ Information Evening at the Community Centre in Ballynahinch.

Banbridge man McCartan was the County Down Junior Player of the Tournament at the 2009 competition and made the move to Turf Moor the following season.

His progress at Burnley has been rapid - making his first team debut against Doncaster Rovers in the Carling Cup back in April. 

Shay scored over 20 goals for the Burnley Youth Team that reached the FA Youth Cup semi’s, and was elevated to the Northern Ireland Under-21 panel.

County Down Milk Cup PRO Barry Greene was delighted to bring Shay to share his experiences in professional football with the 2012 Milk Cup squads. 

“There’s no better example of how the Milk Cup can propel the career of a talented young individual.  Shay was outstanding for us in the Under-15 section back in 2009,” he said.

“Less than three years later he is in the first team squad at Burnley.  I’m sure Shay’s success will inspire individuals within this year’s group of players to go on and do something similar.”

The Milk Cup is marking its 30th anniversary with county sides playing their opening fixtures within their own locality.  Parkway, home of Northern Amateur Premier Division Club, Comber Rec have kindly agreed to host County Down’s games against previous winners, Everton and Etoile Lusitana.

Related topics: