Shea Charles has become Northern Ireland’s costliest ever player after his £30m transfer to Fulham, with former international Stuart Dallas describing the deal as beneficial for both the player and the London club.
The 22-year-old completed his move from Southampton to Craven Cottage this week, surpassing all previous fees for a Northern Irish footballer. Charles started his career at Manchester City before joining the Saints, also spending time on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.
During Southampton’s unsuccessful play-off bid last season, Charles scored a stoppage-time winner in the semi-final against Middlesbrough, seemingly securing their place in the final. However, the club was later expelled due to the ‘spygate’ controversy. His displays attracted attention, and with 35 senior caps for his country, the midfielder now gets the chance to perform in English football’s top tier, with Dallas expressing belief in his abilities.
Dallas, who made 248 appearances across a decade at Leeds United’s Elland Road, stated that Charles has demonstrated his capacity for Premier League football through both club and international performances. The former Leeds man observed that Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill has constructed the national side around the midfielder in recent times, with other talents like Conor Bradley and Trai Hume supporting him at the heart of the team. Dallas referenced the World Cup play-off against Italy, where Charles controlled proceedings for an hour, noting he would not have looked out of place in the Italian lineup. Despite this, Dallas believes further development remains possible given Charles’s youth and extensive Championship experience.
Ethan Galbraith represents another Northern Ireland player to have switched clubs during the summer, departing Swansea for Stoke in a deal whose fee was not disclosed. The 25-year-old, originally from Glengormley, impressed for the Swans following his arrival from Leyton Orient, contributing three goals in 39 matches while primarily deployed at right-back. However, midfield or wing positions may suit him better, and Dallas sees potential for him to flourish in his preferred role. Dallas described Galbraith as a gifted player who influences games when in possession, capable of operating wide, centrally, or deeper as required. With 11 caps, Dallas hopes Galbraith finds regular football at Stoke and can display more of his abilities in his strongest position.