LOUTH’S CIARAN ‘CASEY’ Byrne has inked a new two-year deal with AFL giants Carlton, it has been confirmed this morning.
Byrne will now call Ikon Park in the Melbourne suburb his home until at least the end of 2017.
In August 2013, Byrne signed a two-year deal with Carlton and has made a big impact since then.
Last April, Byrne made an exciting AFL debut against Essendon – just 18 months after learning how to play the oval ball game.
He suffered a “devastating” injury setback shortly after but has done enough since then to warrant a new deal.
Byrne was named on the bench for his Carlton debut but after coming on against Essendon, the 20-year-old impressed by claiming nine disposals, one mark and laying a solid tackle.
Carlton’s Head of Football Andrew McKay says Byrne and Simon White, another previous rookie to be retained, have both earned this opportunity.
“We are really delighted Simon and Casey have recommitted to the Blues – both boys are exceptional people who have great character and a tremendous work ethic,” McKay told the official Carlton website.
“Ciaran has shown he can be a really exciting player for us and it’s a credit to him how quickly he’s picked up the game.
“It was really unfortunate he suffered an injury at training the week after making his debut, but we’re looking forward to seeing his development next year with another full pre-season under his belt.”
Ciaran Byrne’s stats
DOB: 6 December 1994
AFL Games: 1
Debut: Round 3, 2015 v Essendon
Guernsey No. 38
Carlton Player No. 1161
