Sunderland hot prospect 'raring to go' after making a big impression

Youngster Rhys Walsh says he is “raring to go” ahead of his first full season in red and white at Sunderland. The 17-year-old forward completed a deadline day move from NIFL Premiership side Glentoran in January and wasted no time making an impression – racking up two goals and three assists in his 10 appearances for the U18s.

However, with the 2023/24 season behind him and players now returning from their summer break, Walsh is preparing to link up with his team-mates this week with many players expected to play across the U18s and U21s this season.

“I have loved every minute so far,” Walsh told the club. “A lot of hard work has gone in to get me to Sunderland and I can’t thank my family enough for their support. My Dad was always at every training session and every game.

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“I am raring to go for the new campaign. I have learnt a lot already from my short time in Sunderland. I know the hard work doesn’t stop but I am excited for what is to come.”

“You’re always learning and adapting,” he continued. “There was an initial big adjustment moving to the area and losing those home comforts, but I love the area, I love the people here and I know I have a really good foundation to push on.”

The tricky winger becomes the third Northern Irish star to feature for the Lads with Trai Hume and Dan Ballard featuring regularly internationally.

“Hume has shown that this pathway is there,” said Walsh. “Playing in the Irish league, making that transition and now being a regular starter.

“You can see how integral he and Ballard are to the side. I know I can learn a lot from their work ethic and general gameplay.”

When signing for Sunderland at the start of the year, academy manager Robin Nicholls said at the time: “Rhys is a player we have coveted for some time and he spent a period with us on trial earlier in 2023. He is an exciting forward, who can operate on either wing or play centrally, and he will join our U18 set-up for the remainder of the season. We are delighted to welcome him to Sunderland and after gaining senior experience this season with Glentoran, we hope that he will be able to settle quickly and hit the ground running.”