David Healy to make Dale Farm Milk Cup draw

The former Manchester United and Rangers striker was a winner at the international youth tournament with Northern Ireland back in 1997 on the second of three appearances at the event.

He also competed for Manchester United in the Junior competition in 1994 when they reached the final but lost 1-0 to Middlesbrough at Coleraine Showgrounds and two years later made the first of his two appearances with Northern Ireland who were unbeaten in the Elite section, only losing out on the title to Turkey on goal difference.

“The Dale Farm Milk Cup is a fabulous competition with a worldwide reputation and I remember winning with Northern Ireland in a team that included Aaron Hughes, Andy Kirk and Jeff Whitley,” said Healy who is now involved in coaching with the Irish FA.

“It is a privilege to welcome a true Northern Ireland legend of the modern era to join us for the draw,” says tournament chairman Victor Leonard.

“David is someone who our young aspiring players look up to and he is an excellent example of how a young player can develop into an international star.”

Also taking part in the draw at W5 in the Odyssey is world famous football freestyle artist John Farnworth who has won both World and European titles in football freestyle and currently holds five Guinness world records.

John’s performances have taken him worldwide to over 30 different countries including shows at the World Cup final, Champions League final, the Formula One Grand Prix and even the West End and Broadway stages.

He has just returned from Barcelona where he met his idol Neymar and dazzled the Brazilian star with his skills.

The 33rd Dale Farm Milk Cup tournament begins with the traditional parade of competing teams through Coleraine on Sunday, July 26, concluding with finals night at Ballymena Showgrounds on Friday, July 31.

Brougshane and Clough will also host games again as the Ballymena area cements its position as a key area in the competition.