Burnley invite Portadown pair over for trials with Premier League club

Lee Bonis and George Tipton left for England earlier this week as a blank space in the Portadown fixture calendar presented an opportunity to take the next step following positive reports during the campaign.

Both players attracted attention from Burnley staff over a first season in the Irish League top flight with Portadown.

“Both boys have been attracting interest all season and it intensified when Burnley sent over a coach to watch Jacob Carney,” said Ports boss Tipton. “He then put a report in recommending George and Lee to be monitored and brought in.

“With us having a free week, contact was made and they travelled over on Wednesday.

“Initial reports are they have shown up well but, regardless of that, it’s a fantastic experience and also just reward for what has been a good season for both of them.”

Dane McCullough last year confirmed a move from Portadown to Burnley’s Academy set-up.