Yesterday we mentioned a story about a Sunday league goalie named Ross Jeremy whose managed to con th Dominican national soccer team to allow him to play in a World Cup qualifier. Lucky bastard. Today we have a story about 7 year old Harry Yates, also a goalie, whose been signed by English Premiership club Everton for his, um…smile, we’re guessing. Because we’re perplexed by what a seven year old can prove to a first division team. Unless this is all a joke. Is a joke? Tell us it’s a joke.

Harry, who plays for his Didsbury Road Primary School as well as junior side The Vipers, will today meet with manager David Moyes to sign on the dotted line.

Harry’s father Phil, himself a former goalie, reckons it was only a matter of time.

“He has no other real hobbies - it really is his number one passion,” he said.

“We even had to get him a soft ball because we can’t stop him kicking around inside, so bang go the ornaments and glassware.”

And he can stop a mean shot from his teddy bear Rex with ease. Once again, we’re left bewildered and jealous. Little Harry Yates gets to play on the first team’s pitch, meet the players, and though no money will exchange between the club and the family, the experience should be great for the kid. That is, until he’s cut.

“He is old enough to understand what a big thing it is but his mother and I have kept his feet on the ground.” added Phil.

“He also knows he can be dropped just as easily if the effort flags but it will be a fantastic experience.” Proud mum Julia added: “Our biggest concern is that he enjoys his journey.”

And is Everton Harry’s favourite team? “It is now.”

Our gut tells us the kid, knowing very well Liverpool and Manchester United were keen on his services, will grow tired of the Premierships underclass. Just look at Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano.

Seven-year-old boy is signed up by Premier League giants Everton [Daily Mail]
Image [Daily Mail]