Toffees’sweetdeal forShayne

Glenavon’s teenage star Shayne Lavery is on his way to Everton after a sensational trial match in which he scored four goals.
Glenavon striker Shayne Lavery - on his way to Everton.Glenavon striker Shayne Lavery - on his way to Everton.
Glenavon striker Shayne Lavery - on his way to Everton.

The 16-year-old St. Michael’s Grammar School pupil was over with the Toffees at the weekend for a second visit.

Shayne played for the Under16s, managed by former Everton and Republic international Kevin Sheedy, and scored four goals in a 6-0 win over Rotherham. On his previous trial he scored against Manchester United.

Following the game Everton offered him a two year scholarship contract.

“I’m over the moon,” said Shayne when the Mail contacted him in Holland where he is with the Northern Ireland U17 team.

“It could not have gone any better. The first two goals came from crosses, the third I managed to get away from a defender and knock it in, but the fourth was my favourite as I curled one into the top corner. “It’s a dream come true. I am delighted to sign for Everton. They have been fantastic to me and I really like the set-up.

“I will have a host family at first when I go over in July. I will finish my GCSE’s here and I’ll be available for the Youth Cup final with Glenavon.”

After his successful first trial a few weeks ago Everton invited Shayne back along with his parents Martin and Margaret to see the set-up and they were certainly impressed with the set-up at Finch Farm, Everton’s multi-million pound training facility.

Once he came under the spotlight a host of clubs took interest, but Shayne will stick with the Toffees.

He started his football at Oxford Sunnyside, moved to Portadown before joining Glenavon. “I owe everything to Glenavon. They have really helped me and encouraged me all the way.”

Shayne’s older brother Conor signed for Manchester United at the age of 14.

“Conor went to United but he is now farming in New Zealand. I also have a farm now - Finch Farm and can’t wait to get over. My aim is progress to the 18s, 21s and then hopefully into the first team.”

Glenavon manager Gary Hamilton is thrilled at the news.

“Shayne has obviously impressed the coaches at Everton. It is a great chance for him and he is going to a great club with a fantastic focus on giving youth a great opportunity,” said Gary. “It is also fantastic for Glenavon to have another young player go across the watter. That is three in three years as Shayne follows Gary Lavery who went to Cardiff City and Robbie McDaid who went to Leeds last season.”