Glenavon duo Matthew Snoddy and Sean Ward blown away by Isaac Baird’s talent

Highly-rated Isaac Baird has impressed in Glenavon’s midfield and is being tipped for big things

Former Crusaders favourite Matthew Snoddy has backed Glenavon team-mate Isaac Baird to fulfil his potential

Experienced Glenavon defender Sean Ward will call time on a successful Irish League playing career

Matthew Snoddy and Sean Ward say they have both been blown away by the strong performances of teenage talent Isaac Baird in the 2023/24 season.

The 19-year-old, who made his first-team breakthrough under Gary Hamilton in 2022, has been a key cog in the Lurgan Blues machine.

After making 35 League appearances in the 2022/23 season, the young midfielder has taken his game to another level.

The ex-Portadown youth product was even handed the captain’s armband in the Mid Ulster Cup.

Former Crusaders ace Snoddy feels that Baird has been overlooked for international selection.

“Isaac has been outstanding for us this season, he’s been brilliant,” he said.

”I sometimes forget how young he is because he has matured so much in the team.

“It is a surprise for me he hasn’t had a Northern Ireland call-up yet; he’s been performing consistently in the Irish League but has been overlooked, which is quite strange.

“That’s a little bizarre, but if he keeps developing, it’s only a matter of time. He’s been very consistent for us and Stephen (McDonnell) has been brilliant with him, I’ve no doubt he will get better under his coaching. He’s good enough to step up as an international.”

Former Linfield, Glentoran and Crusaders hero Ward is also excited to see how Baird’s career unfolds.

“Isaac has been excellent,” said Ward. “He plays in a centre-midfield role with so much energy. He has good legs, covers the ground well and he’s so level-headed