Bannsiders seal deal for Lowry

COLERAINE FC is delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Stephen Lowry on a two-year contract…

The Limavady man becomes Oran Kearney’s first arrival of the summer transfer window after joining from Linfield.

The 31-year-old has inked a two-year deal at The Showgrounds and has joined for a second spell after leaving the Bannsiders for Linfield in 2014. At the Blues, Lowry would taste success in the Danske Bank Premiership, Irish Cup and County Antrim Shield, as well as featuring in Europe.

Stephen first joined the club in 2010 under the management of David Platt and made his debut against Glenavon on February 6, 2010. However once Oran Kearney was appointed, Stephen would go on to be one of the top performers in the country and made 170 appearances for the club, before departing for Windsor Park.

Speaking after announcing Lowry’s arrival, Stripes boss Kearney was thrilled to complete his first piece of business ahead of the 2018-19 season.

“We are absolutely delighted to sign Stevie,” Kearney said.

“It is a fantastic coup for us. We feel that Stevie still has a huge, huge amount to give and that was evident when he came on against us earlier in the season at 2-0 down and Linfield managed to earn a draw.

“He is one of the best midfielders in the league, knows the club and is local, so that ticks all the boxes.

“Stevie experiences at Linfield will stand him in good stead and we are delighted to get him back on board. We had a great relationship when he was here and this signing raises the bar.”

The Club can confirm that Lowry has been allocated the number 8 shirt for next season.

A video interview with Stephen will be published in due course.