Fleetwood Town teenager Conor Haughey is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting young defenders in the EFL, with several Premier League clubs understood to be monitoring his progress closely. The 18-year-old centre-back has enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Cod Army and is already being tipped for the very top. Conor Haughey currently […]
Fleetwood Town teenager Conor Haughey is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting young defenders in the EFL, with several Premier League clubs understood to be monitoring his progress closely. The 18-year-old centre-back has enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Cod Army and is already being tipped for the very top.
Conor Haughey currently plies his trade with Fleetwood Town in League Two and announced himself in style on New Year’s Day, making his league debut against Grimsby Town. Far from overawed, the teenage defender produced a commanding, mature display at the heart of the defence and was rewarded with a Man of the Match performance. He has also featured three times in the Vertu Trophy this season, further showcasing his potential on the senior stage.
The Northern Ireland youth international joined Fleetwood from prestigious NIFL Premiership side Glentoran, where he made history as the youngest ever player to represent their first team at just 15 years old. Fleetwood and Glentoran have built a strong relationship in recent years, with Haughey following in the footsteps of Barry Baggley, Chris Conn-Clarke, Harry Wilson and Jake Wallace in making the move across the Irish Sea.
Haughey arrived at Highbury Stadium with considerable international pedigree too, having captained Northern Ireland’s Under-16s in the Victory Shield during the 2022–23 season. A dominant, athletic centre-half with leadership qualities beyond his years, he initially joined Fleetwood on a two-year scholarship and has impressed coaches at every level.
Comfortable on the ball and tactically astute, thanks in part to time spent playing in midfield during his development, Haughey is viewed internally as a future first-team regular. With Premier League interest now growing, Fleetwood may have unearthed another gem — but for now, the teenager remains focused on consistency, development and taking his next opportunities as they come.
