Ballymena United confirm Cathair Friel’s departure

BALLYMENA United has confirmed on Sunday evening that Cathair Friel has moved to Carrick Rangers for an undisclosed fee. The 27-year-old departs after 162 appearances at the club.

Confirming the news this evening, manager David Jeffrey explained the time line of a busy few days: “Cathair was placed on the transfer list in December by the club, was made available to speak to other clubs about a move in January, and at that time Cathair also made it clear that he felt his future lay elsewhere. With no reasonable offers forthcoming, we discussed some loan options with him this past week, when he reported and confirmed with us that he had agreed and signed a pre-contractual agreement to move to Coleraine in the summer.

“One of the clubs who were interested in a loan deal were Carrick Rangers, and Niall Currie asked again today if he would be permitted to speak to Cathair, and they agreed a deal to take Cathair until the end of the season on a full transfer.

“An agreement was struck between the clubs on a fee and so this evening Cathair has signed to play for Carrick.Cathair was one of the first players to sign for us, and has been a part of the success created during our time with 70 goals, however, the last couple of season have been affected by injury and form, and with the strength in the squad now both we and Cathair can move forward with football into the next chapter, whatever that holds.

“Going forward we thank him for what he contributed and we wish him all the best.”