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Former Northern Ireland U19 boss confident Shea Charles will 'flourish' at Fulham after record-breaking transfer Former Northern Ireland U19 manager Gerard Lyttle believes Shea Charles will “flourish” at Fulham after making a record-breaking £30million transfer to the Premier League club – and always knew he was destined for the top. Charles became Northern Ireland’s most expensive player of all-time on Tuesday after the completion of his move to Craven Cottage on a five-year contract, trumping the previous reported record which was held by Jamal Lewis (Norwich City to Newcastle United) at £15million. The 22-year-old has developed into one of his country’s most important players, earning 35 caps to this point, having enjoyed a brief stint in the underage set-up, where he was first called up to Northern Ireland’s U19s by Lyttle. While many could feel potential price tag pressure, Lyttle has full faith his former midfielder will take it all in his stride. "It’s a proud moment for Shea, his family and everybody who has played a part in his development,” Lyttle told the News Letter. “The fee reflects what Fulham believe Shea can become. "They’re not only getting a very talented midfielder and player, but also an excellent character who has a massive amount of development ahead of him. "They’re probably looking at all of that and thinking that if Shea comes in, plays well in the Premier League and continues doing what he is doing, he’s an asset for them. "I honestly think he will flourish and do well. On top of his ability he has all the intelligence, character and everything that goes along side being a top player, Shea has that in abundance. "I’m really looking forward to how he does and where he can go with it. I wish him all the best.” Charles played twice for Lyttle in a pair of friendlies against Faroe Islands in September 2021 before featuring in their European Championships qualifying campaign the following month, but his time in the U19s was brief due to his clear quality. He made his senior debut under Ian Baraclough in June 2022 and Lyttle believes Charles’ off-field characteristics match his on-field ability. "The first thing that stood out for me was how comfortable Shea was on the ball,” added Lyttle. “His composure, awareness, and decision-making were exceptional from an early age – that was recognised by a lot of people who have worked with him. "I’m really delighted for Shea and his family, he comes from a really good, supportive family and Pierce (Northern Ireland goalkeeper) is there as well. "I think he was 16 when I first got introduced to him. I made him my captain for the U19s, you could see his composure and intelligence. "Added value and how he has got to where he is now, it’s his character. That matched his ability, he was very grounded, coachable and wanted to improve every time you spoke to him. "He has the all the tools. A club doesn’t buy a player for £30million if you don’t.”