Coleraine's Ruairi Harkin seals deal with Cliftonville

Harkin completed his long-awaited move from Coleraine to the Reds on Monday night.

The 26-year-old former Charlton Athletic midfielder passed a medical before putting pen-to-paper on the deal.

Harkin had been on Cliftonville’s radar throughout the summer, and last night Lyttle hailed the arrival of the gifted midfielder.

“Ruairi was a key target and I’m delighted to get the deal across the line,” Lyttle said.

“He is a technically gifted player who ticks all the boxes.

“He is in his prime and has reached a stage of his career where he is hungry to really make an impact and win trophies.

“He has great quality on the ball and is a player I have always enjoyed watching, not only as a spectator but as a coach.

“He entertains and is the kind of player people like to watch.”

Harkin is unvailable for Saturday’s Danske Bank Premiership opener against Ards as he recovers from a slight knee strain sustained at the end of last season.

“Ruairi pushed his recovery a little too quickly, but he is in the final stages of his recuperation,” said Lyttle.

“Hopefully he will be back to full fitness soon and we can get him back on the pitch.”