Representing your country has to be one of the best achievements in sport, but signing your first professional contract is a close second.
17 year-old Jacob Devaney is on the verge of experiencing both after being called up to the u19 Irish squad today after his first contract was signed in the summer.
It's been a hectic few months for the Barnsley-born youngster, having been called up to train with Erik Ten Hag's senior squad at the end of last season. Devaney will hope to emulate fellow academy graduates such as David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and most recently Marcus Rashford as an example of some of the world-famous names who have emerged from the Carrington academy and forged a successful career in the game.
Love this passage from Jacob Devaney.
Works hard to win the ball in final third - is unlucky to be dispossessed - and powers back to make the defensive recovery and regain possession once more, amending his original error.
A true captain leading by example. pic.twitter.com/iX4bkwUsPh— SCOOP. (@AcademyScoop) August 31, 2024
Arriving at Manchester United at the age of 7, the contract is a testament to the hard work and many sacrifices the youngster has had to make over the years.
Léigh an scéal seo as Gaeilge anseo.
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Jacob Devaney's family delight to represent Ireland
His dad Martin Devaney is also the assistant manager of League one side Barnsley, couldn't be prouder of the United under 19 captain's progression.
Devaney is a holding midfielder who was promoted to United’s first-team for training last season and is part of the development squad coached by ex-Ireland defender Paul McShane.
We are delighted☘️🇮🇪Jacob to represent Ireland. As a family so proud! Grandad will be smiling from above ❤️ pic.twitter.com/wAz7NDMH4G
— Martin Devaney (@Martindevaney1) September 2, 2024
Along with Devaney, there are also maiden call-ups to Tom Mohon's squad for Cian Dillon of Shamrock Rovers, 16-year-old goalkeeper Cian O’Shea who is on loan at Stockport Town, UCD’s Cathal McCarthy, Finn Harps' Aaron McLaughlin and Declan Osagie of Bohemians.
With three upcoming friendlies beginning on Thursday afternoon against France. Kazakhstan and Slovenia are to come it gives the new call-ups plenty of time and opportunities to impress and make their mark in the international set-up.
