RONAN Doherty says he has been made to feel more than welcome since his move to the Bannsiders earlier in the January transfer window…

After agreeing to join the club in the summer on a pre-contract agreement, the deal was brought forward to January after an undisclosed fee was agreed with Cliftonville.

Doherty, who recently turned 29-years-old, says the move has been made easier by a friendly introduction to life on the Ballycastle Road as he embarks on full-time football for the very first time.

He said: “I feel really good.

“It’s the first time I’ve done full-time football, I’m loving it so far and I suppose I see the boys more than anybody.

“It’s good, I’m loving it, you’re well taken care of and there’s lots of good people around the club.

“I’m getting to know everybody which will take time but it’s comfortable so far and I’ve been made to feel more than welcome.”

Coleraine return to Dungannon Swifts this afternoon in the sixth round of the Irish Cup, just seven days after the two teams played out a 1-1 draw at the same venue in the Sports Direct Premiership.

Dean Shiels’ side deserved at minimum a point for their efforts and Doherty – who lifted the famous trophy with Cliftonville last season – says they will travel to County Tyrone full of confidence.

“We thought we were the better team last weekend…so we go there confident,” he added.

“Irish Cup is a bit different, it’s a one-off game, so I’m sure it’ll be a lot different to last week.

“As I say, we are well-prepared and positive going into it.

“I don’t playing the same team back-to-back is ever the same game, so it’s about trying to start fresh which is quite hard because you only played them a week ago.”

Supporters are reminded that a cash gate will be in operation for the game, with prices set at £15 adults, £10 concessions and £1 kids with a paying adult.