A former Linfield Academy graduate has been recognised for his achievements on and off the pitch.
Carl Johnston - who is now at Fleetwood Town - was included in the League Football Education’s ‘The 11’.
'The 11' recognises academy youngsters for their football and off-field work.
It looks at the football and academic progress of Under 18 players on apprenticeships and assesses other factors including involvement in community or charity-based initiatives.
Johnston has featured in Fleetwood's Under 18s this year, and is one of of 33 apprentices who were selected for the award in 2020/21.
He joined the EFL League One side at the age of 16 after spending seven years with Linfield's Academy.
Ciaran Donnelly, Fleetwood Town Academy Manager, added: “Carl has been an exemplary scholar throughout his two years with the club.
"His attitude to training and desire to improve is admirable and a shining example for others to follow. He has an insatiable competitive spirit and has accessed this consistently throughout his scholarship.
"Carl is a natural leader and demands the same standards he sets to others. Every aspect of his game that he can make a difference too he goes at it 100% and this has placed him in a good position to potentially have a career in the game.
"We are looking forward to seeing how he progresses over the next 12 months as a young professional.”
Linfield said on their website: "The club is delighted that Carl has been recognised this early in his career and wishes him every success for the future."
