HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Shea Charles unfazed by record transfer fee

BBC Sport Football •
×

Shea Charles does "not really think about" the price tag that made him Northern Ireland's most expensive footballer when he joined Premier League Fulham from Southampton. The midfielder described the record-breaking £30m move as "quite crazy", but said being in the Premier League and playing football is "amazing".

Interviewed by BBC Sport NI's Stephen Watson, the 22-year-old said he is kept grounded by his family, including his younger brother and older brother, and a strong friendship group. International football will occupy his attention as Michael O'Neill's side face Georgia home and away, Hungary and Ukraine.

Charles has been capped 35 times since debuting in June 2022 and said international football has helped his development. He praised O'Neill for trusting him and giving him responsibility, including the armband. He has played in all five of Fulham's Premier League matches this season, starting three, including draws against Liverpool and Manchester United.

His brother, goalkeeper Pierce, is also part of the Northern Ireland squad. English-born Charles qualifies through his mother, who he says is "dead proud" watching them at Windsor Park.