‘Real’ deal for Greenisland

Greenisland player Alex Norris met Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo on a recent trip to the Bernebeu

The Glenkeen Avenue club, which helped hone the talent of Manchester United’s Jonny Evans, is busy finalising plans for a five-day stay in the Spanish capital where its Under-10s and Under-12s will play games against teams from Real and Atletico Madird.

After six months of organisation, excitement is at fever pitch as the countdown to kick-off against one of the world’s biggest clubs really begins to hot up.

A party of 70, including players, club officials and parents, will fly to Madrid on April 11 for what’s sure to be an unforgettable and jam-packed few days.

The lads will be given a tour of the imposing Bernebeu Stadium and will also have the chance to train at Las Rozas - the Spanish national team’s base for home games. They will also visit the Spanish Football Museum.

Keith Norris, trip co-ordinator, said: “We have a total of 29 kids from our 2002 and 2004 groups going and all are delighted to be involved.

“It should be an amazing time, and the boys are keen to show off their skills.”