Gallagher eager for more

COLERAINE goalkeeper Martin Gallagher has thanked Oran Kearney for placing his trust in him after signing a new contract with the club…

The shot stopper has put pen-to-paper on a fresh three-year-deal that will see him remain at The Showgrounds until the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

Gallagher – who finished the campaign between the sticks after an injury to Gareth Deane – admits he enjoyed being thrown into the deep end as the Bannsiders secured European qualification next season.

“I am delighted to sign a new contract,” he said.

“The three years shows how much trust Oran has in me and that’s great.

“Last year I had a taste of action and I want more.

“I had to go a year and a half without a competitive game and had to quickly find my feet but I felt I settled in well.

“The fact the games were Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday meant that I didn’t have a chance to think and I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Gallagher highlighted that Bannsiders’ defence helped him settle into the team and paid tribute to Gareth Deane for their close relationship both on and off the pitch.

“The quality of our defence is frightening and that certainly helps,” he added.

“Their first thought is getting a clean sheet but we defend from the front and we had a great record last season.

“Gareth and I get on well and we have a great training relationship as we push each other hard.

“We also have a good friendship off the pitch and we have each other’s back and full support when we are playing.

“I must also pay tribute to Michael Doherty who has been brilliant with me since I arrived through the door.”

So what is next for Martin before a return to pre-season training?

“To be honest, the end of the season came at a bad time as I was enjoying playing,” he concluded.

“However, I am giving myself a couple of weeks break and taking things easy.

“I will still be going into the gym as I have bits and pieces to work on and make sure I keep fit.”