Youngsters Commit to Clyde
Director of Youth, Willie O’Neill was a very proud man last week as he witnessed the club sign 18 young players for the under-19 side.
“I’m genuinely delighted to see the guys come on board,” Willie said. “As Jim (Duffy) has said we have some players here of real talent and potential and it’s a privilege to be part of this story as the club moves forward.
“Clyde’s Pro-Youth structure has had talented players before, but what we have worked on is ensuring that the products of that system are better integrated into the life of the club and ultimately the first team squad. The night we signed the players, the club directors and secretary were present to be part of it and it proves that our young players are part of the Clyde family.
“Jim, on a regular basis, has been taking some of the lads into first team training and several featured in the pre-season friendlies. We have now seen Scott Ferguson make his full debut so I think that demonstrates to all the players and their families that Clyde are serious about young players.
“Often when people talk about youth development it is only talked about in the long-term but the reality for Clyde is that we will be reliant this season on the quality of our youths. Yes, they may be the players of the future but they could also be the players of the present and they will need the backing of the supporters as they develop and learn.
“Our commitment to youth is an essential part of putting in place the necessary foundations for Clyde to progress; for in any sustainable business plan youth development has to be at its heart. With the work achieved to date and our plans for the future I am delighted that we are on course to achieve that aim.”
The official website will endeavour to keep you updated on latest news on the youth structure at the club throughout the season.
The full list of under-19 players signed up for the forthcoming season is:-
- Sam George (Goalkeeper)
- Christopher Shaw (Goalkeeper)
- Cameron Cairney (Goalkeeper)
- Gary Campbell (Defender)
- Fraser McGhee (Defender)
- Johnny Forrest (Defender)
- Alan Cairns (Defender)
- Paul Murphy (Defender)
- Billy Robb (Defender)
- Darryl Bullock (Midfielder
- Scott Ferguson (Midfielder)
- Connor McGuiness (Midfielder)
- Gordon Young (Midfielder)
- Connor Lynas (Forward)
- Jordan O’Donnell (Forward)
- Darren O’Neill (Forward)
- Kieran Blair (Forward)
- Paul Orrick (Forward)
Jack Currie (Forward) and Dylan Duddy (Midfielder) are also expected to be registered in the near future.