QPR sign Irish youngster

Premier League strugglers Queens Park Rangers have announced the signing of Irish midfielder Ryan Manning on their official website.

The 18-year-old has signed a two and a half year deal with Rangers with his contract at Galway United having expired.

Few more Premier League sides were in the race for the winger’s signature, but Manning ultimately decided to accept an offer from QPR.

“It feels like a dream come true – it’s all very surreal at the moment,” Manning told club’s official website.

“There were a few clubs interested, but when I came over and met with the manager and Les (Ferdinand), I was in no doubt that I wanted to move to QPR.

“We spoke at length about QPR and what they thought of me as a player and it just seemed like a really good fit for everyone.

“The opportunity for me to progress as a player at a club like QPR is something I’m really looking forward to doing.

“I have some catching up to do. In my head I have put the first six months to getting used to the set-up, the full-time training and all that. By the start of next season I hope to really push on.

“I’m just delighted to be here and can’t wait to get started.”

Manning began his professional career with Mervue United, where he bagged 9 goals in 28 league matches before moving to Galway United.

The youngster scored 4 goals in 23 outings for Galway, helping the club gain promotion to the elite division before his contract expired in December.

Manning, who has made three appearances for Republic Under-19 side, joins QPR as a free agent, although the Premier League side will have to pay a compensation fee due to the player’s age.