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07 Oct 2025

Limerick soccer ace Anthony Forde joins English League One side

Ballingarry native Forde joins Burton Albion from Wrexham on a short-term deal until the end of the season

Limerick's Anthony Forde on the promotion trail with Oxford Utd

Talented Ballingarry winger Anthony Forde

Reporter:

Colm Kinsella, Sports Editor

25 Feb 2025 11:42 AM

Email:

sport@limerickleader.ie

BALLINGARRY soccer ace Anthony Forde has joined English League One side Burton Albion on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The versatile Forde arrives at the Pirelli Stadium after mutually agreeing to end his contract at Wrexham. He has previously had spells at Oxford United, Rotherham United, Walsall, Wolves, and Scunthorpe United.
Predominantly used as a wide player, Limerick man Forde has made 282 EFL league appearances and 6 Premier League appearances.
Forde has also won promotion on four different occasions with Wolves, Rotherham United, and most recently, back-to-back promotions with the Red Dragons. A further three play-off campaigns with Walsall and Oxford United complete the 31-year-old’s impressive CV.
Forde, who represented Ballingarry AFC at schoolboy level, is a former Rep of Ireland U21 international.
Forde, a former student at Colaiste na Trocaire, Rathkeale, is son of Noel and Christine.
Forde began his journey in football with hometown club Ballingarry FC as a youngster, but departed for the English Midlands in 2009 to join the academy setup at Wolves.
It was at Wolves that he was handed his professional debut featuring in a League Cup tie under manager Mick McCarthy against Northampton Town in August 2011.
A few months later, Forde made his Premier League debut away to Chelsea. The then 18-year-old was handed his first start flight against Arsenal at the Emirates.
Forde was loaned to Scunthorpe United in 2013 and later helped Wolves secure promotion to the Championship on his return, before signing for Walsall, where he spent two seasons.
On signing for Burton Albion, Forde said: "I can’t wait to get going and hopefully be a part of something good – I’m delighted to sign.
“My standards are pretty high and it’s up to me to show what I can do now. I’d like to think I have a lot of experience and have played most of my career in League One. When I came in and trained last week I could tell what a great group and great place it is.”
Burton Albion Head Coach Gary Bowyer, added: “We’re delighted to have Fordey here. He’s another good addition and has a wealth of experience at this level.
“He’s been training with us for a short period now, so we know what he’s about as both a player and a person. He makes our squad stronger and can play across a number of positions, so we’re happy to add that further versatility as well.”

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