A familiar return for striker at Loughgall as Institute snap up three new recruits
Loughgall’s striking options have been boosted by the return of former fans’ favourite Nathaniel Ferris.
The forward has agreed terms on a season-long loan from parent club Glentoran.
The 27-year-old certainly needs no introduction to Loughgall supporters after scoring 87 goals in 206 appearances in his first spell at the Villagers, meaning he is the club’s leading scorer in the 21st century.
Ferris, who has also been on the books at the likes of Dungannon Swifts and Portadown throughout his career, spent the second half of last season on loan at Glenavon but failed to prevent the Lurgan Blues from suffering relegation.
However, his latest stint on loan is set to give the striker more game time under the watchful eye of Darren Murphy at Loughgall.
"On behalf of the Committee can I welcome Nathaniel back to Lakeview Park, said the club’s vice-chairman Stuart Crozier in a statement.
"A player that gives his all and leads by example every time he takes to the pitch.
“Our thanks go to Paul Millar and Glentoran FC for their help and assistance in arranging this loan transfer.”
Glentoran say they wish Ferris “every success” during his loan spell with the Championship side.
Meanwhile, Institute have continued their recruitment drive by confirming three new arrivals from Dungannon Swifts.
The first is Aidan Hegarty who is no stranger to ‘Stute after spending last season on loan at the Brandywell.
“Aiden is a young player who was on loan with ourselves last season and did very well irrespective of where he played,” said Institute manager Peter Hutton.
“The management team feel ‘Hegs’ will continue to grow and develop into a very exciting talent, and we’re happy he’s now going to be doing that with Institute FC."
Meanwhile, defender Danny Hawe has also joined ‘Stute from the Swifts on a season-long loan.
Hutton added: “We had seen Danny play against ourselves in pre-season and he acquitted himself really well. With ourselves being short in defensive options, we enquired about Danny and thankfully he decided to come in.
“He is a young player with huge potential and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue his development with us throughout the season.”
Also returning to ‘Stute is goalkeeper Gareth Muldoon.