West Ham United can confirm that young defender Michael Forbes has joined EFL League One side Northampton Town on a season-long loan.
The 21-year-old Northern Ireland international embarks on his third senior loan spell, having previously spent time with Bristol Rovers and Colchester United last season.
Forbes joined the Hammers from Northern Irish club Dungannon Swifts in 2020 and went on to sign his first professional contract in May 2022, captaining both the U18s and U21s development teams, where he made a combined 72 appearances. He earned his senior international debut for Northern Ireland in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier against Finland in November 2023.
At Northampton, Forbes will work under the management of former West Ham United captain and coach Kevin Nolan, who took charge of the Cobblers in December, guiding them to League One safety with two games to spare. The young Hammers recently faced Northampton during their pre-season schedule, a goalless draw in which Forbes featured.
Everyone at West Ham United wishes Michael the very best for his loan spell in League One and looks forward to seeing his continued development with Northampton Town.
