AIDAN Harris says he has loved his first taste of senior football after his loan deal at the club expired…

The shot-stopper has returned to parent club Newcastle United following a four-month loan deal at The Showgrounds, which yielded 22 appearances in all competitions.

Harris has been a popular member of the first-team squad since crossing the Irish Sea and he was thankful for everyone at the club for making him feel welcome.

He said: “I have loved being at Coleraine for the last four months. It’s been an enjoyable experience and my first taste of senior football in a man’s environment.

“I feel like I’ve dealt with that well and whilst I’ve had to come through a few bad experiences, I think it’s made me a better footballer and person, so it’s been a good start to my senior career.

“There is a great bunch of lads here and I felt accepted by them straight away, so I can’t thank them enough for that. They welcomed me with open arms to be honest.

“There is a tight-knit group here and we often spend time away from the club together by going for walks or coffees.

“Michael Dougherty has been a brilliant coach and has helped me so much since I’ve been here. The goalkeeping unit here is very close and I’ve no doubt that the top standard will continue.”

The experience marked Harris’ first taste of Irish League football – something which he thoroughly enjoyed.

He also paid special praise to the Coleraine fan base for being behind him throughout his time on the Ballycastle Road.

“It is a very competitive league, and you have to be at your best to get all three points,” he explained.

“I quickly learned how tough it is and it’s quite physical for a goalkeeper but those are the challenges you want.

“The fans have been brilliant, and they even made a song for me – so I can’t thank them enough.

“They stuck by me when I had a few difficult moments, so I’d like to thank them for that.

“I’ll be back over watching Coleraine games when I can, and I’ll be looking out for their results.”

So, what’s the mindset as he heads back to St James’ Park?

“Work hard and see where it gets us,” he stated.