Derry City have completed the signing of Manchester City and Republic of Ireland youth international Joe Hodge.
Joining on loan for six months, the 18-year-old midfielder's arrival represents a major coup for the League of Ireland side.
The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international was named scholar of the year at the Premier League club, and is likely to make the jump to Under-21 level under Jim Crawford this year.
Hodge was handed his first professional deal at the Etihad last August, but was loaned out to the Brandywell to be given his first taste of senior football.
"I'm absolutely delighted to be bringing Joe to Derry City," Candystripes boss Declan Devine said.
"It’s a high-profile loan signing for us given that Man City are one of the biggest clubs in the world and Joe is one of their top young talents and current Scholar of the Year.
"Of course Joe is just 18-years-old and this will be his first venture into senior football.
"We want to help him evolve and to enjoy this opportunity. I’m hoping that his spell with Derry City will play some small part in the youngster fulfilling his potential.
"I’d like to thank Manchester City for their assistance in getting the deal done and assure them we will look after the lad."
The English-born starlet has also represented the Three Lions but qualifies for Ireland because of his Irish grandmother.
Hodge's arrival at the Brandywell represents a major step forward for the FAI's plans to keep the midfielder in green.
He was the standout player for Ireland at the U17 European Championships in 2019, and also gained headlines for starring in the U19 European Championships that same year.
