McCartan joins youth squad

Last updated : 21 May 2010 By Tony Scholes
Martin Dobson - delighted with the signing of Shay McCartan
A quick check with the club confirmed that Shay had been over to Burnley a few times and we'd beat a number of clubs to his signature to allow the Banbridge Town and Glenavon youngster to start his two year apprenticeship with us next season.

That news has been confirmed by the club today, and it is news that has delighted the youth development staff at Burnley. Director of Youth, Martin Dobson, said today: "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 his a talented player who we feel has a future in the game. 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."

Burnley have agreed compensation fees with both clubs for Shay and we will continue to work closely with Banbridge Town in an ongoing youth coaching and player assessment role to identify further future talent.

This comes on the back of the news this week of the development squad being set up when it was confirmed that we would have a bigger youth squad for the 2010/11 season. McCartan is one of a number of new players who will be joining the youth system after the summer break included Arran Williams, brother of Rhys, who signed recently.