Highly-rated Limerick goalkeeper 'excited' to join English Premier League club

A HIGHLY-RATED young Limerick goalkeeper has signed for English Premier League side, Brighton and Hove Albion on a permanent deal.

Teaty United's Michael Dike, who previously played with Caherdavin Celtic and Limerick FC, penned his contract with the Premier League club this week and joins the club's U21 squad where he will shortly commence his pre-season preparations.

The 18-year-old former Caherdavin Celtic schoolboy was actually a late convert to the goalkeeping ranks, initially plying his trade as an outfield player.

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Once he made his switch, however, Dike's aptitude as a goalkeeper became very obvious as his agility, shot-stopping and overall character shone through.

Teenager Dike made his Treaty United senior debut, aged 17, when coming on as a substitute for the injured Corey Chambers in a 1-0 away victory over Kerry FC on March 1, 2024 in the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division.

The Limerick man went on to make 10 first team appearances for the Senior Men’s team in the 2024 season. His most memorable appearance was his penalty shootout heroics at the Markets Field when saving two penalties as Treaty United advanced past Kilbarrack United in the 2024 Sports Direct Men’s FAI Cup.

The talented netminder said he looked back on his time at Treaty United with appreciation and is really looking forward to the challenge of joining the Premier League club.

“My time at Treaty has been amazing, all the coaches, the players, all the information I’ve received. My favourite Treaty moment was obviously that penalty shoot-out, saving the first penalty and then saving the second to send us through," Michael Dike said.

"I can't wait for my Brighton journey to start. It's everything I’ve ever dreamed of. I'm excited to see what happens, it's a new chapter in my career”

Treaty United Senior Men’s Team Manager, Tommy Barrett, is delighted that the talented teenager is
getting the opportunity for full-time football.

“It's a fantastic opportunity for Michael and we wish him all the best. Michael has been great for us and has all the attributes to be a top keeper, great personality, great athleticism and he works really hard at his game.

"We are all looking forward to seeing Michael flourish and have a great career in the game. It's also important for the players in the Treaty United Academy to see the likes of Michael coming through and making such a good move.”