Forbes joins the Hammers

TYRONE SuperCupNI player Michael Forbes has been snapped up by West Ham United.

 

The gifted young Dungannon Swifts player signed a pre-contract agreement with the Hammers last week and on turning 16 today (Wednesday) officially joined the ranks of the East Londoners.

 

A number of clubs had declared an interest in signing the talented Ardboe youngster, who can play in midfield or defence, but, after impressing during three different trials with the London Stadium club, Forbes agreed to become a young Hammer.

 

In recent years Forbes has consistently caught the eye while turning out for Dungannon and as part of the Northern Ireland Elite Programme and just last summer was one of the stand out performers for the Tyrone Junior team which reached the semi-finals of the SuperCupNI only to be knocked out on penalties by Rangers.

 

Head of Development at Dungannon Swifts Dixie Robinson confirmed that Forbes had signed for West Ham.

 

“The deal is done and Michael is a West Ham player as of his 16th birthday today,” said Robinson.

 

Forbes, who can play centre-back, left back or in centre midfield, is also a talented GAA player and the young Ardboe Rossas player had firmly established himself as key member of the Tyrone Minor set-up.

 

However when the Hammers came calling it was too good an opportunity for the talented teenage sportsman to turn down.

 

Robinson said Forbes possesses huge potential and standing at 6’2” has all the attributes to do well in the full-time ranks.

 

“Physically and athletically Michael has a lot going for him. And he is techinically very good as well,” he said.

 

FULL STORY IN TOMORROW’S DUNGANNON HERALD