Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand was in West Belfast on Tuesday to officially open a new office for one of the UK’s top football agencies.
New Era Global Sports Management, which represents the interests of Ferdinand, Mick McCarthy, Harry Redknapp and Robbie Savage, was launched at the Innovation Factory.
It is the company's first satellite office outside its London HQ, where it is headed up by former professional players Jamie Moralee and Pete Smith.
The Belfast base will be run by former professional footballer Lee Mudd.
“There are a lot of talented young players here and having an office in Belfast will provide them with the opportunity to make it on a bigger stage," Mudd said.
"We currently have 15 players on our books from Ireland and Northern Ireland and I would expect this to grow considerably in a short time as there is so much potential here."
Moralee added: “We recognise that it is an enormous challenge for a young person to leave this country and go to live in England.
"It is important to provide them with a support network. It can be a tough, ruthless environment and they need a caring team behind them to look after them not just now but throughout their careers.”
Shane Smith, Innovation Factory’s Community Engagement Officer, said: “We are very excited to welcome such a prestigious sports agency to Northern Ireland.
"New Era Sports has recognised the facilities and support we have to offer and we look forward to helping them expand their activities in Northern Ireland.”
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