Northern Ireland U16 international Alfie Pollock believes an opportunity to play senior football at Glenavon “really helped me kick on” after landing a dream move to Premier League outfit Sunderland.

Pollock enjoyed an unforgettable Premiership debut for the Lurgan Blues in April, marking the occasion by scoring against Carrick Rangers.

The 16-year-old is a product of the Irish FA’s JD Academy programme and has played five times for Northern Ireland’s U16s, including in friendlies against North Macedonia and Turkiye earlier this year.

Pollock has been involved with Glenavon’s senior squad throughout pre-season – he was named in the matchday squad for their recent 5-0 loss to League One outfit Doncaster Rovers at Mourneview Park.

placeholder image — Glenavon manager Michael O'Connor (left) and academy manager Jeff Magee (right) make a presentation to Alfie Pollock ahead of his move to Sunderland. (Photo by Glenavon FC Academy)

The young defender is the latest Irish League talent to make a move to the Stadium of Light with Adam Nelson joining the Black Cats earlier this summer from Glentoran, following in the footsteps of Rhys Walsh and Coleraine’s Matthew Burns.

Pollock travels to England with senior experience under his belt and he feels exposure to men's football has helped accelerate his development.

“A big thank you to all the coaches, players and everyone involved with Glenavon who have helped me develop throughout the years,” he said on Glenavon’s academy social media. “Massive thanks to Mick for giving me the opportunity to train and play senior football which has really helped me kick on.

"I also wish Mick and the boys all the best in the season ahead.

"I have loved my time here...my favourite moment has to be scoring on my Irish League debut at the end of last season.”

Earlier this year, Pollock described Northern Ireland international Trai Hume as his “favourite player to have represented the national team” – and he is now following in his footsteps by joining Sunderland.

Hume is the Irish League’s biggest success story of recent years, establishing himself in the Premier League and will be playing in Europe next season after Sunderland claimed a spot in the Europa League.

The 24-year-old played in the Premiership for both Linfield and Ballymena United (loan) before earning a move across the water in 2022, helping Sunderland climb from League One to England’s top flight.

He featured in all 38 Premier League matches last term, scoring twice – including in their final game of the season as they defeated Chelsea 2-1 at the Stadium of Light to seal European progression for the first time in 53 years.

Co Armagh club Annagh United also sent congratulations to their former youth player Pollock, posting: “We wish Alfie Pollock all the best on his move to Sunderland AFC.

"It is great to see a local lad that started at Annagh United Youth Academy at five years old now moving to full-time football.

“Well done Glenavon FC Academy and Alfie’s parents on supporting and developing Alfie to now get the opportunity of a life time for any young player. All the best Alfie from everyone at Annagh Youth FC.”