Harkin pens new deal with the Bannsiders

CIARON Harkin is the latest player to sign a contract extension with the Bannsiders...

The central midfielder has agreed a one-year extension which will see the former Derry City player tied down to the club until June 2020.

Harkin joined the Bannsiders in January 2017 from Institute and has excelled in his new surroundings. The 21-year-old has made 27 appearances, scoring two goals since his switch to The Showgrounds.

Stripes boss Oran Kearney admits he wants the club to keep hold of their best players and has been impressed with Harkin’s development in the blue and white stripes.

“Ciaron is developing into a fantastic central midfielder,” Kearney revealed.

“We want to keep our best players and it was the easiest contract extension I’ve agreed with a player.

“He has formed a great partnership with Brad Lyons and he gets on well with everyone at the club.

“I know he is a big hit with the supporters and his performances deserved a call-up with Northern Ireland Under-21’s.”

Harkin is delighted that the extension was agreed as he enters a busy period for club and country.

“It has been a great nine months for me since I’ve arrived,” Harkin said.

“I’ve played plenty of games and it was a no brainer to sign the new contract.

“We are going well in the league and we have a few exciting challenges ahead of us.

“It is great to get everything sorted and I’m looking forward to the international break, before returning for a big game against Linfield.”