Manchester City prospect Shay Facey will officially spend the first part of the 2015 season on loan with sister club New York City FC.

NYCFC announced the signing of the 21-year-old defender on loan until June 30.

The England youth international has been training with New York City FC throughout the club’s preseason and has played a part in friendly matches in each training camp.

A versatile defender who can play at center back or full back, Facey’s strong performances for Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad led to a nomination for the 2013-14 Young Player of the Year award at the club. He made his senior debut for the club on a preseason tour of South Africa against SuperSport United in 2013.

“It’s really exciting for me to be joining New York City FC as we begin our historic, inaugural season. The squad and coaches have been fantastic throughout training camps, and I’m happy to be part of something so special,” Facey said. “It been a fantastic experience. The initial idea was just to train with the team for preseason, but I’ve really enjoyed working with the group and am now very much looking forward to the start of the season. What’s happening at this club is exciting for a player and it’s something we talk about as a group.

“The standard has been competitive in training as well as in the matches, and I’m looking forward to fighting for my place in the squad and learning from [head coach] Jason Kreis and the other coaches. It will be a proud moment for me when I make my MLS debut.”

Get more NYCFC news at NewYorkCityFC.com

Jason Kreis added: “It’s great for the club to have added Shay to our ranks. He’s fit in well during preseason on and off the pitch and his defensive talents will add depth and quality to the back line. Shay is also a versatile defender that can play in numerous positions across the defense. I’m confident he will bring a lot to this roster.”