Premier League giants making their way to SuperCupNI

TWO Premier League giants will be making their way to Northern Ireland later this summer as their latest crop of young talents take on some of Europe's best.

Manchester United and Liverpool will take part in a special U-18 Elite section at the SuperCupNI and the English duo will face stern tests as they face two European heavyweights in Valencia from Spain and Hertha Berlin from Germany.

SuperCupNI chairperson Victor Leonard said they were delighted to receive the support of four high profile clubs.

“The tournament is renowned across the world and over the years we have been able to develop a number of strong friendships through football.

“When we approached Manchester United and Liverpool about this venture, both clubs were incredibly supportive and were keen to throw their support behind it.

“We have been able to stay in close contact with our contacts at Valencia and their Academy were full of praise for tournament after their debut in 2019 and we know that they will bring over an incredibly talented side for this tournament.

“Hertha Berlin are also well respected in Germany as a club that promotes young players, and we were delighted to have the club confirm their participation.”

Both Liverpool and Manchester United have significant followings in Northern Ireland and Victor admitted they are anticipating considerable interest in this Elite section.

“Supporters of both clubs in recent years have witnessed first-hand the likes of Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Curtis Jones and Trent Alexander-Arnold starring at the tournament and we have no doubt that all of the games will be very well attended.

“We are expecting supporters to attend in their numbers at each of the games and this will have a positive impact on the council area as a whole as local businesses reap the rewards of increased footfall in the Coleraine, Ballymena and indeed the surrounding areas for the six matches."