Derry City have added to their squad for the 2021 SSE Airtricity League season with the loan signing of Irish underage star Joe Hodge from Premier League table toppers Manchester City.
The 18 year old star who has featured at underage championships for the Republic of Ireland including the U19 European Championship in 2019 which resulted in a phenomenal long range equaliser from the youngster against Norway in Armenia.
This will be the first taste of senior football for the talented youth player as he prepares for the start of the League season at the Brandywell. His first appearance may come in their season opener at Bishopsgate against fellow new boys Longford Town who have returned to the division after a 3 year absence.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be bringing Joe to Derry City,” said Candystripes manager Declan Devine.
“It’s a high profile loan signing for us given that Man City are one of the biggest clubs in the world and Joe is one of their top young talents and current ‘Scholar of the Year’.
“Of course Joe is just 18 years old and this will be his first venture into senior football.
“We want to help him evolve and to enjoy this opportunity. I’m hoping that his spell with Derry City will play some small part in the youngster fulfilling his potential.
“I’d like to thank Manchester City for their assistance in getting the deal done and assure them we will look after the lad.”
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