Star duo launch Foyle Cup

Both players previously participated in the Foyle Cup tournament and spoke highly of the level of pleasure they had in competing and how it helped them immensely in their football careers.

"It's a great tournament for the town, the calibre of the teams that make the effort to come here every year, show you how big a tournament it is and I'm sure the people of Derry will come out and support the young lads in their droves as always," said the Celtic winger.

"I played in the Foyle Cup, I'm not sure what year it was but I do remember playing in it for the Derry & District.

"Everyone playing in the competition is in the shop window and for any of the players in the D&D sides playing against one of the big teams and he puts in a big performance then you have the chance of catching the manager's eye, then you maybe get the chance of a trial and you never know where that might lead to from there.

"The Foyle Cup is definitely a place for the young lads to showcase their talent in front of the bigger clubs," admitted the Northern Ireland international.

"It is getting bigger every year because when I started when I was 14, it was big then but it has got even bigger and hopefully it will be good this year," said the Everton centre-back.

"It's a good opportunity for young players. That's how you start off and that's how I started off so hopefully we can see some other good talent coming out of Derry."

In praising the competition organiser's they highlighted the unique atmosphere that prevails throughout the week of competition and the large attendances at all the matches across the North West region.

This year's event will witness the largest ever entry in the eighteen year history of the event with 144 teams competing. The event will take place in Londonderry, Strabane and Limavady from July 19th July 24th.

Tournament Chairman Michael Hutton in acknowledging the growth of the tournament expressed his delight that the event is still not only attracting a high quality of entry but an ever increasing entry of teams.

"When one thinks about the result the recession is having on spending power not just throughout Ireland and the UK but globally - it is remarkable to note that this year we will have our highest ever entry of teams - up from 128 teams in 2009 to 144 teams."

Mr Hutton continued: "Each year, the international appeal of the Foyle Cup is witnessed more and more as teams from far and beyond British shores travel to Derry to compete in the event. The good news that is the Foyle Cup travels far - this year alone we have five top quality teams travelling to compete from Canada and America.

"Added to this we have teams from all across Europe and the best that Britain can offer. Whilst this interest is immensely important and pleasing, what is even more gratifying is that more and more of our senior Irish league and Airtricity League clubs recognise the opportunity being afforded them to prepare young players from their club to compete against top class opposition.

"These players are not simply being assembled to play in a tournament but are reaping the benefits of many years of involvement and preparation put in by their coaches at their senior clubs."

"Those involved in hotel and B&B business do so much to heighten the profile of this event as they strive to ensure that every single person staying throughout the week experiences a 'True Derry City welcome."

More details regarding this year's event can be viewed on tournament website www.foylecup.com.