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The highly rated Cork native Hourihane was with Cork intermediate side Douglas Hall, but it was fellow Cork man Roy Keane in the manager's job that made him choose Sunderland.
Hourihane was in the Irish under-16 side which claimed victory in the Ballymena International Tournament in April. Hourihane will be one of 10 new players who will be part of the Sunderland academy.
He told SAFC.com:
"Roy Keane was always my favourite player growing up. To play under him will be awe-inspiring and a privilege.
"His name and presence was a big factor in me choosing to sign for Sunderland. He has promised to take care of me which is great to hear from someone with his reputation.
"He was the only manager who I met from all the clubs who were interested in me and that was a big factor, it showed his desire and willingness to sign me. He's someone I can learn a lot from."