A PROMISING young footballer has bid farewell to his Cumbrian secondary school after signing with a Premier League side.
Marley Irving, a Year Nine pupil at St Benedict’s Catholic High School in Whitehaven, has joined the Manchester United academy.
The 14-year-old of Cleator Moor, has joined the Red Devils from Carlisle United, where he was a goalkeeper for the U14s team.
He previously played for Cleator Moor Celtic FC and also played rugby for Wath Brow Hornets Youth Section.
Marley Irving had his last day at St Benedict's Catholic High School in Whitehaven last week (Image: Submitted)
Marley had his last day at school in Cumbria last week before joining the academy, which has produced some of the club’s greatest players, including David Beckham, George Best and Sir Bobby Charlton.
Emma Jackson, headteacher at St Benedict’s Catholic High School, said: “We are so proud of Marley and delighted he has this remarkable opportunity. However, we will miss him too. We wish him every success."
Tony Harrison, head of PE at St Benedict’s said: "Marley is obviously a very talented, competitive and driven sports performer. He shows willingness to learn, listen to advice and always strives to improve his and performance of others around him.
"He is a very positive role model and leads by example. He won our Sports Boy of the Year last year amongst a very competitive field of peers, which shows his ability and I know he was proud to have won that award.
Marley Irving will begin his football career with Manchester United (Image: Submitted)
“We are very confident as a PE department and school that he will take this fantastic opportunity and excel in the performance environment at Manchester United. We wish him all the luck in the world and encourage him to keep focused, work hard and aim high."
A statement published on social media by Cleator Moor Celtic FC read: “Massive congratulations from the whole club to Marley Irving who has signed for Manchester United.
“Marley started his career with us before getting signed by Carlisle United at U8s.
“Once again a massive congratulations to Marley from the whole of the club. Everyone wishes you all the best for the future.”
