Ronan Doherty joins Larne from Coleraine

Ronan Doherty has joined Larne from Coleraine for an undisclosed fee.

The Donegal man, signed by previous head coach Dean Shiels, spent 12 months at the Showgrounds.

Speaking to the Larne FC website, manager Gary Haveron said he was 'delighted' to secure the services of the 30-year-old midfielder.

“I’m absolutely delighted to bring Ronan on board – he’s a player I’ve admired for some time," said Haveron.

“I think he is a player who can control games for long spells. He wants to take the ball off the backline and help us play through the thirds and I think he is a really fantastic addition to the club.

“Having met with him recently I not only think he’s a great player, but a great lad and he fits with what we want in the people we bring into the group. He fits with his ability and he fits with his personality and who he is as a person.

“I’m delighted to get him on board and I can’t wait to get him involved and start playing games.”

Doherty, who has amassed more than 200 top flight appearances and who lists Cliftonville and Institute among his former clubs, is looking forward to joining up with his new team-mates.

“I’m delighted to be here and get everything done. I’m really looking forward to getting started on Friday night," he said.

“This is the best team in the league at the minute, they’re top of the league for a reason and what more could you want to play for the number one?

“Larne have also won two of the last three league titles and become a massive club so it’s not a tough decision at all to come here.

“You want that blend of youth and experience and I think Larne have had that. There are also a number of players I’ve played with before and hopefully that will help me settle in quickly.

“Inver Park was a place I hated to come to, because you so rarely got anything from the game. I want to play my part in helping to keep it that way," he added.

Doherty becomes the latest player to leave the Bannsiders in the January transfer window.

"Everyone at the club thanks Ronan for his efforts and wishes him well for the future," said a Coleraine FC spokesperson.