‘Incredible’ - Marshall Heys becomes youngest ever FA Cup player for a professional club in Salford win

Marshall Heys, a 15-year-old midfielder, made history on Tuesday night when he became the youngest ever player to feature in the FA Cup for a professional club.

Heys came on as a substitute for Salford City in their first-round replay against Chesterfield, aged just 15 years and 241 days.

The teenager, who is still a schoolboy, broke the previous record held by Ethan Nwaneri, who made his debut for Arsenal at the age of 15 years and 181 days in August 2022.

Heys’ appearance for Salford was a remarkable achievement, given that he was born after the club was founded in 2014.

The midfielder has been with Salford since the age of 11 and has impressed coaches with his skill and maturity.

Heys is a product of Salford’s academy, which has produced a number of talented players in recent years.

The teenager’s appearance for Salford was a proud moment for the club and for his family.

His father, Mark Heys, said: "It was an incredible moment for Marshall and for the whole family.

"He has worked so hard to get to this point and we are all so proud of him.”

Salford manager Neil Wood said: "Marshall is a very talented player and he has a bright future ahead of him.

"He is still only 15 but he has shown that he is capable of playing at this level.”

Heys’ appearance for Salford is a sign of the club’s progress in recent years.

The Ammies have won two promotions in three seasons and are now established in League Two.

The club’s academy is also producing some exciting talent and Heys is one of the brightest prospects.

The midfielder’s performance against Chesterfield was a glimpse of what the future holds for Salford.

Heys is a talented player with a bright future and he is sure to make a big impact for Salford in the years to come.