Harkin re-joins the Candystripes as Doherty moves the other way to Coleraine

Derry City have confirmed the swap deal which sees Ciaron Harkin return to the Brandywell for 2019 from Coleraine while Ben Doherty heads the other way after a spell on loan with NIFL Premiership side Glenavon.

Harkin returns to his hometown club after a brief time away from the League of Ireland. The 22-year-old enjoyed fruitful stints at Institute and Coleraine with the midfielder winning an Irish Cup with Coleraine.

To date in the 2018/19 NIFL Premiership campaign, Harkin has made 22 appearances for the Bannsiders before news of his return to the Brandywell broke.

Heading the other way to Coleraine is full-back Ben Doherty. Doherty, 21, joins forces with Rodney McAree’s side after a previous spell with fellow NI Premiership side Glenavon.

Whilst at the Lurgan Blues, Doherty made 19 appearances for the club where the talented full-back scored two goals for the Mourneview Park outfit.

Commenting on the swap-deal, Coleraine boss McAree told his club’s official website that he would not stand in Harkin’s way as he sought a return to his hometown club.

"Ciaron has been one of the best players I've worked with here at Coleraine," McAree added.

"His love for Derry City meant the deal was a possibility and I believe that was the only club he'd leave us for."

McAree soon added;

"We are delighted to secure the services of a quality footballer who is adaptable at playing across different positions," manager Rodney McAree told the club website.

"Ben has a great eye for goal, he has a terrific delivery at set pieces and a sweet left foot.