The January transfer window may be only a few hours old but several deals have already been completed.
Much-travelled midfielder John Herron has joined Belfast Celtic as a player and coach much to the delight of the Ballymena & Provincial Football League side.
In announcing the transfer the Wee Hoops said the move would not only benefit the club in terms of their youth development but also Herron as he begins the first steps in his coaching journey.
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"John has developed a strong relationship with the club's head of Youth Development & Coaching, Jonathan McMurray, while playing together in the Irish Premier League, and is eager to work in developing a strong coaching and education programme for young people in the heart of west Belfast," a statement read.
"John has a desire to coach at various levels and will start his project here at Belfast Celtic. The Youth Section of Belfast Celtic is a great opportunity for John to hone his coaching skills with other committed coaches and players that have varying levels of experience. He will be surrounded by a core group of individuals that are keen to help him start his journey as a coach.
"He is committed to passing on his experiences and knowledge of the professional game with young players throughout the club and will look to help progress the club through the rest of this season starting with Belfast Celtic playing the Irish Cup 5th round game against Moyola Park on 4th January."
Herron will also join one of the club's community partners, Inter Futsal, as a player for the next 2 seasons. Inter Futsal compete in the Northern Ireland Futsal Federation’s Men Super League, and will look to qualify for the UEFA Futsal Champions League Qualifications. He will also be eligible for the Scotland squad in the next European and World Campaigns.
Meanwhile, one of Herron's former Ballymena United teammates, Noah Stewart, has joined National League side Maidenhead United for an undisclosed fee.
Crusaders have also been busy in the market bringing in 20-year-old striker Josh O'Connor from Hibernian. O'Connor has signed an 18-month deal at Seaview following successful loan spells at Airdrie and Dundalk.
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