Attempts at qualifying for Euro 2020 brought about feelings that we are used to in Ireland. We huff and puff, get some decent results, but ultimately the squad reminds us that it is just not quite good enough to qualify. Of course, we have managed to do so in the past, so there is hope that we continue to develop talent good enough to give us a chance to once again make the major tournament in the future.
With that in mind, this article is going to take a look at some of the young Irish talent currently emerging through the ranks of Premier League clubs in England. Whether already part of first team squads, or knocking on the door via each team’s development squads, there are some great young players making their way through the ranks.
Joe Hodge – Manchester City
A lot of expectation has been placed at the feet of Joe Hodge, and it is little wonder. Manchester City has a bunch of Irish players coming through the ranks but for many, Hodge is the one to keep an eye on. In fact, Shane Keegan recently said that losing Hodge to England would be a bigger blow than losing Jack Grealish or Declan Rice – and that is saying something.
The midfielder has been likened to Xavi and Iniesta thanks to having a wide range of passing and an engine that gets him up and down the pitch with ease. His performances for the development team at City led to him being voted the Scholar of the Year in the 19-20 season. This season, he was sent back to Ireland on loan with Derry City where he has been tearing it up.
Catch the Irish Lads via Live Sports Streaming
Over in Ireland, it can be difficult to keep tabs on our young talent playing abroad, especially if out on loan or playing for development teams. Thankfully, many sites offer live streaming sports such as football, darts, horse racing, cricket, rugby, tennis, boxing, MMA, and more. One example is 101greatgoals live streaming where you can find live football streams, match previews, predictions, highlights, and the latest odds.
If you want to know how to watch online, simply visit these sites and they will give you the instructions needed. You can watch sports live streaming on your desktop or mobile devices in high-quality resolutions and with stable connections that rarely drop.
Troy Parrott – Tottenham Hotspur
Having already represented the Republic of Ireland at all age groups right up to the senior side, there are big hops for Troy Parrott. Still only 19, the forward has spent the past two seasons out on loan in the leagues below the Premier League. That experience should serve well for the youngest as sometimes the ruff and ready approach of the below leagues is a good way to toughen up younger players.
It remains to be seen whether Parrott can reach the top echelons of the game but it is clear many believe he has the talent. The nippy, skilful, and determined lad is never afraid to put a foot in, defend from the front, and come deeper to get involved in the play.
The Takeaway
Those are just two young lads that look like they have what it takes to get to the top. There are many more too, including Thomas Cannon at Everton, Omototayo Adaramola at Crystal Palace, and George Nunn at Chelsea. Could these players one day forge a top career and possibly make the 10 highest-paid athletes in the world?
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