Doneil Henry’s dream move is now complete.
The Toronto FC Academy alum officially signed a long-term contract with the Premier League’s West Ham United on Saturday.
Henry was sold to Cypriot First Division club Apollon Limassol last year, and stayed with the Reds on loan for the 2014 season. He returned to Limassol this winter and was then sold to the Premier League outfit for an undisclosed fee.
The 21-year-old earned 92 first-team appearances for the Reds, after joining the Academy as a 15-year-old. Today, he is an example of what the club’s Academy system can produce.
Henry wants to be the vanguard of a new era in Canadian soccer. Saturday’s signing is a major step in that direction.
"There are a lot of talented young Canadian players coming up through the youth ranks right now and if they can get some more opportunities to develop at good clubs under great coaches, I feel that they can definitely be one of the top countries in competition," Henry told West Ham’s official website.
"Personally, I want to make my mark as quickly as possible. The only way to develop is by playing games and putting yourself under pressure. It's all good for players to get opportunities so the sooner I can get into the mix the better.
TFC general manager Tim Bezbatchenko was full of praise for the Brampton, Ont. native.
"We are very happy and excited for Doneil. Seeing a player achieve his dream is very special," Bezbatchenko told TorontoFC.ca.
"We are happy to have been able to work together to help Doneil develop as a player during his time here and ultimately achieve this significant milestone in his career. On behalf of everyone at Toronto FC we thank Doneil for his many contributions to the club and wish him all the best in his new adventure."
Henry immediately slots into Sam Allardyce’s first team, but growing pains are to be expected. The Hammers currently sit seventh in the league, just four points outside of a Champions League spot.
In sum, it’s a historic day for Henry, his family and friends, Toronto FC and soccer in Canada. If you didn’t already have a Premier League team to support, you do now.
