At the age of thirteen years and 329 days, Northern Irishman Christopher Atherton became the youngest player in Great Britain history when he made his debut with FC Glenavon. In Australia, a 13-year-old goalkeeper made his debut on Thursday in the Australian Cup semi-finals.
| Christopher Atherton made his debut at the age of 13 (Photo: Glenavon_FC) |
The young striker came on as a second-half substitute in the 6-0 win over Dollingstown in the Northern Ireland League Cup and provided an assist for winner Matthew Snody.
Glenavon Director, Gary Hamilton He spoke proudly of his player who has been playing for the club for ten years. “He’s a great kid. I’m lucky to see him play every two weeks for eight years because he’s been playing at the same place as my son Callum. Watching him is an experience, but the determination and work he puts in off the field to become a professional soccer player is incredible. This is what sets him apart from the rest of the players here. He develops himself day and night, eats well and goes to bed on time. He is the best player in his age group.”
Hamilton is sure the young striker will be able to hold on in England and Scotland. “There is a lot of interest in him across the channel, and that doesn’t surprise me at all. It’s great that someone from our academy can present themselves in the first team.“
Tonight, Glenavon Academy player Christopher Atherton made his team debut against Dollingstown in the League Cup. In age and days, he became the youngest UK player to play in a top-class match.
Congratulations Kristo!! pic.twitter.com/hypGdC5R7p
– Glenavon Club (@Glenavon_FC) September 13, 2022
In Australia, 13-year-old Ymir Abele entered the Oakley Canons Stadium in the 91st minute of the Cup semi-final against MacArthur, when Daniel Arzani, the youngest Australian footballer, played in the World Cup. In the 2018 World Cup, leading professionals led by Daniel Arzani already won 5-2 at the home of the semi-amateur team.
Not knowing in advance what his coach Chris Taylor was to do, 13-year-old Abelle only told him in the 85th minute to start the warm-up, and in the 91st minute he was served instead of the 31st. Luis Italiano, more than twice his age. Abelé did not concede a goal in the few minutes remaining, so he accomplished his most important task.
