Bohs’ Irish U21 starlet Ward to join Wolves in record deal

IRISH U21 international striker Stephen Ward last night agreed to sign for Mick McCarthy’s Wolves in a move that could eventually be worth €350,000 to Bohemians.

The Dalymount Park board of directors last night agreed on an initial down payment of €200,000, a record for an eircom League club.

This will rise by another €150,000 if Ward wins senior international caps, makes 25 first team appearances and Wolves are promoted.

There will also be a sell-on clause with Bohemians receiving a percentage of any possible future transfer.

“We would rather have the player than the money. But given Stephen’s ambition to play in England, we would not stand in his the player’s way,” said Bohemians secretary Gerry Conway.

Ward will sign a two-and-a-half year contract for Wolves who are currently ninth in the Championship but just one point adrift of a place in the promotion play-offs.

Apart from an offer by Stephen Kenny’s Dunfermline, McCarthy also beat off offers from Birmingham City for a player equally adaptable on the wing.

Ward recently had two days on trial at Molineux and scored five goals in a behind closed doors training match. McCarthy has always been an admirer of the player and had him on trial at Sunderland two years ago when he was boss at the Stadium of Light.

“I am glad Mick kept tabs on me and this is a dream move as I was very impressed with the set up at Molineux and the plans Mick has for the club.” said a delighted Ward.