‘Incredibly hard-working, mentally strong and focussed’: Newbridge, County Kildare schoolboy poised for international soccer career

A schoolboy from Newbridge has become the youngest ever goalkeeper at one of Ireland’s most highly-regarded soccer Clubs.

Shaun 'Nuggie' Hall, who is 16 years of age, was picked for the senior bench for St Patrick’s Athletic in the first round of the Conference League.

Ger O'Brien, Director of Football with St Pat’s, praised the unassuming young player, saying that he has all the qualities needed to succeed in the field of professional soccer.

Mr O'Brien said: "Shaun is developing into a top young goalkeeper.

"We brought him into the St Pat’s Academy at a very young age and his work rate and desire has given him a great chance of having a career in the game.

"Travelling with the 1st team to play Fac Vaduz is a fantastic reward for his work rate and qualities.

"Training and being around senior professionals like Joe Anang and Danny Rogers will only continue to help his development in the coming years."

Mr O'Brien concluded: "He is incredibly hard-working, mentally strong and focussed, a true team player and he is happy to  lead, and great too at taking direction."

Last year, Sean won Best Goalkeeper at the Le Havre U17 International tournament in France, playing for St Pat’s Athletics, in what is one of soccer’s most coveted awards for underage players.

The young goalkeeper also started all five games against Scotland, Wales, France, Spain and Italy.

Shaun 'Nuggie' Hall. Photograph supplied by Sally McEllistrim.