
Jack has already shown his class on the international stage, frequently featuring the youth squads of the Republic of Ireland, becoming a member of the European U17 Championships qualifying squad. The midfield terrier has become known by many throughout Ireland, and during Ireland's 1-1 draw with Serbia, managed to score. Nevertheless, the goal wasn't enough to send Ireland through, crashing out at the final hurdle. Jack Byrne has been named as one, if not the very best, to be coming through Ireland's rank, after being named the country's best performer in the qualifying campaign, also having scored a hat-trick against Macedonia in October.
Ireland is not the only place the name Byrne is being quickly spread through the eager, excited minds of footballing fans though, as Manchester City fans are keeping a close eye on the dead ball specialist. After clinching a deal with The Citizen's Academy in 2011, aged just 16, Jack has climbed through the squads, and although being younger than most in City's Under 18 squad, the captain's armband has been rightfully given to Byrne throughout the season. Jack is being given the opportunity to dazzle and shine in the middle of midfield, an opportunity he certainly isn't rejecting.
Jack began his career back in Ireland, as a young boy playing for a small club, unknown by many, playing in the same way as boys all around the world. Jack was then signed up by St Kevin’s Boys FC, a side who have also produced talent in the names of Liam Brady, Ian Harte and Stephan Carr. However, most notably, current upcoming star Robbie Brady, who had been tipped as a future star for Manchester United, and now could become a Premier League regular for newly-promoted Hull City. David Duff has become one of the club's finest products, becoming a Premier League star, and even playing for Chelsea, making 100 appearances for the national side. Even with the success of Duff, Byrne has been tipped as the greatest player to ever come from the Boys youth side, bigger than Damien Duff.
As a fiery player, Jack hasn't been a stranger to the referee's notebook, but the Dublin-born player feels his fiery nature and determination on and off the ball gives himself, and his team, the advantage in many games. With Jack's recent performances in both the green and blue shirts, many are expecting to see Jack soon feature in the Manchester United Senior Side, having already been linked to Arsenal and Liverpool in recent times.
His next big test will be the move up to senior football, and the question will be if, and where, he makes the changeover. With City fans across the country wanting to see Byrne develop into a top player, will he be given the opportunity next season by new manager Pellegrini?
Discussion: Jack Byrne: An Irish Great?
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