Aidan Harris: 'Talented young goalkeeper' makes return to parent club Newcastle United as loan spell at Coleraine ends

The shot-stopper joined the Bannsiders in the summer following an injury to Ryan Schofield and made 22 appearances in all competitions.

Harris, who has been on the bench for Newcastle United’s first-team, racked up eight clean sheets in that time but will now make a return to St James’ Park.

Paying tribute, Coleraine boss Ruaidhri Higgins says the teenager will have gained so much experience from his maiden bow in senior football.

He added: “Aidan has had a good period with us and learned so much.

“Like all loans, not everything goes plain sailing but the majority of it was for Aidan and he goes back to Newcastle United a better goalkeeper.

“He is a very talented young goalkeeper, a great lad, very respectful, mannerly and good fun. We wish him nothing but the best for the rest of his career.”

Michael Dougherty, who is Head of Goalkeeping at The Showgrounds, outlined how Harris has completed his loan deal with “flying colours”.

“Naturally we are disappointed to see Aidan return to his parent club Newcastle United, however, it’s also a proud moment for Aidan and us as a football club,” he reflected.

“From the outset the objective was to allow a very talented young goalkeeper the opportunity to showcase his ability and gain valuable first-team experience, while helping us as a team and a football club be competitive and push toward success.

“Aidan has been fantastic to work with every day and has completed his loan with flying colours on and off the pitch.

“We are delighted to have played a small part in his development and wish him the very best in his career.

“We would like to thank Newcastle United and Tony Caig for their trust and support.”

Harris, who is 19-years-old, thanked everyone at Coleraine for making him feel welcome and how he will always look for the Bannsiders’ results.

He explained: “I have loved being at Coleraine for the last four months. It’s been an enjoyable experience and my first taste of senior football in a man’s environment.

“I feel like I’ve dealt with that well and whilst I’ve had to come through a few bad experiences, I think it’s made me a better footballer and person, so it’s been a good start to my senior career.

“There is a great bunch of lads here and I felt accepted by them straight away, so I can’t thank them enough for that. They welcomed me with open arms to be honest.

“There is a tight-knit group here and we often spend time away from the club together by going for walks or coffees.

“Michael Dougherty has been a brilliant coach and has helped me so much since I’ve been here. The goalkeeping unit here is very close and I’ve no doubt that the top standard will continue.

“The fans have been brilliant, and they even made a song for me – so I can’t thank them enough.

“They stuck by me when I had a few difficult moments, so I’d like to thank them for that."