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COLERAINE FC is delighted to announce the signing of Ben Doherty on a two-and-a-half-year contract…

The midfielder becomes Rodney McAree’s second acquisition as Bannsiders boss following the arrival of Jamie Glackin.

The Derry City ace joined Glenavon at the start of this season and has scored two goals in 15 league starts, for whom he has featured at left-back and in central midfield.

The Londonderry/Derry native has won numerous caps for the Northern Ireland under-21 side and joins his father Eamon in playing for the Stripes.

Speaking to colerainefc.com, boss McAree believes the 21-year-old’s versatility will prove to be an asset at The Showgrounds.

“We are delighted to secure the services of a quality footballer who is adaptable at playing across different positions,” he said.

“Ben has a great eye for goal, he has a terrific delivery at set pieces and a sweet left foot.

“He is eager to get started and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

The Club can confirm that Doherty will wear the number 23 shirt and will be in contention to make his debut against H&W Welders in the Irish Cup.

As part of the deal, Ciaron Harkin will return to the Brandywell after a two-year stint with the Bannsiders.

The midfielder has been a mainstay in the Coleraine engine room but the lure of a return to his boyhood heroes proved too hard to turn down.

Harkin will be in the matchday panel for the New Year’s Day clash against Cliftonville before making his departure to the Candystripes.

“Ciaron has been one of the best players I’ve worked with here at Coleraine,” McAree added.

“His love for Derry City meant the deal was a possibility and I believe that was the only club he’d leave us for.

“We wish him the best of luck and I’m sure everyone involved with the club thanks Ciaron for his contribution.”