We are delighted to announce the signings of Ivan Struk, Bayley Hester and Marcus Neill to the scholarship programme at the Academy of Light.
Ivan joined the club towards the start of 2023-24, initially on trial and then via a pre-registration agreement with Chelsea.
A combative midfielder who is just as adept on the ball, he had represented both our U16 & U18 teams before an injury brought an early end to his season. He moved to the area and re-joined the team a few weeks ago.
Bayley signed on a pre-registration agreement from Southampton in January, having been with the Saints since the start of his Academy journey. Bayley represented England during his U15 season and is capable of operating at full-back or on the wing.
Marcus joins us from Liverpool, where he was an Academy player for several seasons - an exciting forward with excellent goal-scoring ability.
The frontman represented our U16 and U18 teams this season since his pre-registration from Liverpool and has also received international recognition as an Australian youth international.
Academy Manager Robin Nicholls added: “We are excited to be adding three players from further afield to the group. Throughout the season our Academy recruitment team, led by Ian Archbold, do a fantastic job in highlighting talented players from other clubs who they think could fit the Sunderland style of play and add something to our group.
“When we became aware that Bayley, Marcus and Ivan would be available we immediately invited them to the Northeast to assess how they would settle in the environment and give them the chance to see what we had to offer here at the Academy.
“We are delighted that all three have chosen Sunderland as the next step in their journey and we are excited to help them fulfil their potential here at the club. I am sure those fans who follow the Academy will be excited to see the boys in action over the next few seasons."