Alfie Friars was one of several players to become a first-year scholar for Derby County’s Under-18s in the summer of 2024.

The central defender linked up with the Rams as an Under-17 player having spent time with Derry City and Coleraine in his native Northern Ireland, playing for their junior teams.

He gained match minutes for the Under-18s in Premier League - North in the 2024/25 season.

Friars has represented Northern Ireland at youth international level, most recently with their Under-17s.