Northern Ireland underage star Ceadach O’Neill could become the latest player from these shores to pull on a Premier League shirt after being named on the bench for Arsenal’s FA Cup clash with Wigan Athletic.
But who is the 17-year-old? Here’s all you need to know about him.
#### Where is Ceadach from?
O’Neill hails from Kilrea in Co Derry. A nephew of former Irish League striker Eoin Bradley, he grew up playing both association football and Gaelic football, with the former clearly having won out!
#### What was his path to the top?
O’Neill initially starred for Ballymoney United before catching the eye of Linfield, and he would make two appearances for the first-team - one in the BetMcLean Cup against Queen’s University and then in the Premiership against Ballymena United - which caught the eye of Arsenal.
#### How did he get to Arsenal?
The teenager initially went there on trial before signing a three-year scholarship deal with the Gunners in the summer of 2024. Last April he agreed his first professional deal when he turned 17.
#### Who else was interested in him?
O’Neill was also on the radar of Southampton and Liverpool, going on trial with both clubs, but it was Arsenal who won the race for his signature.
No better way to mark your first appearance at your new club than scoring twice on your debut, which is what O’Neill did, netting a double against West Ham. Since then he has been called up to train with the first-team squad during international breaks and has revealed that the likes of Raheem Sterling - who is no longer with the club - were inspirations.
#### What international level has he played at?
The Kilrea man has played at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-19 level for Northern Ireland and has starred for his country in the Victory Shield.