Brandon Downey signs for Portsmouth FC

TALENTED Tattyreagh teeanger, Brandon Downey, has signed for EFL Championship Portsmouth from Crusaders FC.

The 16-year-old signed for an undisclosed sum and was awarded a three-year deal after an agreement was reached with Crsuaders before the transfer deadline last week.

Downey made his first team appearance for Crues aged just 15 and recently signed a three-year professional contract at Seaview.

Confirming the move, a Crusaders spokesperson said Brandon made 13 first-team appearances last season for the club in the Sports Direct Premiership, impressing with his performances and earning a dream move across the water to continue his footballing journey.

"Everyone at Crusaders FC would like to thank Brandon for his commitment and contribution to the club, and we wish him every success in this exciting next chapter of his career," a club spokesperson said.

Brandon recently graduated from the Elite JD NI Residential Academy based at Campbell College, Belfast.

He is former Tyrone SuperCup player and a current NI U17 youth international and NI U18 Schoolboy international.

Pompey Academy confirmed Downey has agreed a scholarship deal with the club’s under-18s team.

Academy manager, Greg Miller, said: “We’re delighted to sign Brandon, who impressed when we watched him play - both on video and in person.

“We believe that he can complement the wide players already in the squad, with his ability to beat opponents and contribute both goals and assists.

“Our coaching staff are looking forward to working with someone who has already made a number of first team appearance, despite his age.”