Interview

Perfect Fit

RONAN Wilson admits he had no hesitation in putting pen-to-paper on a new contract with the club…

The L/Derry native has agreed to extend his stay on the Ballycastle Road until the end of the 2024/25 season after signing forms on a three-and-a-half-year extension.

Wilson, who joined the club at the start of the 2020/21 campaign from Cliftonville, has made 33 appearances for the Stripes to date.

Speaking to colerainefc.com’s Jonathan McNabb, the 23-year-old stated that contract negotiations were a formality after speaking to boss Oran Kearney.

“I’m buzzing to get everything sorted and over the line,” he said.

“I’ve enjoyed my time at Coleraine, I feel like I’ve fitted in well, the changing room is a superb environment and we have the best fans in the league.

“It was a very easy decision to extend my contract as the club is progressing both on and off the pitch and I want to be a part of it.

“I’m not just saying this because I’ve signed a new deal, but I see my future at Coleraine as it’s the best club I’ve played for my in career and Oran is the best manager I’ve worked under.”

The former Institute ace can operate in a number of positions and excelled as a midfielder in the first leg of this year’s Europa Conference League fixture against FK Velez Mostar, before switching to full-back for the home fixture.

However, no matter where he is tasked to play on the park, Wilson insists he will give his all to the team.

“I enjoy playing a variety of positions as it gives you more opportunities for game time,” he added.

“The 18 months that I’ve been here has absolutely flew by and my debut in Maribor has to be the highlight.

“I’ve probably not had as much game time as I would’ve liked until recently but I’m now content and enjoying getting on the pitch.

“Like all the lads, I enjoy coming to training as it lifts the mood especially if you’re having an off day and the car up from Derry is always entertaining.”

Ronan’s hopes and aims for the next three-and-a-half years are pretty simple.

“I have the same goals as everyone else at the club and that’s to win as many senior trophies as possible,” he concluded.

“Not only that, but I want to rack up as many appearances as I can, no matter what the position, and keep progressing.”