Cliftonville confirm return of Northern Ireland U21 star while Irish Cup-winning midfielder exits
Cliftonville have confirmed the return of Northern Ireland U21 international Liam McStravick from Scottish outfit Airdrieonians – while Shea Gordon has departed for Dungannon Swifts.
McStravick came through the youth ranks at Solitude before joining Linfield, where he scored on debut and signed a professional contract prior to making a move to Scotland.
The 21-year-old made 50 league appearances for Airdie, including 12 this term, and scored three goals in that time.
He netted an equaliser in Airdie’s 2024 SPFL Trust Trophy final victory over The New Saints, but also suffered an ACL injury in the showpiece decider.
McStravick has featured in three of Northern Ireland’s U21 2027 European Championship qualification matches and will now return to the Irish League after the Reds paid an undisclosed fee.
Confirming his exit, Airdrie posted: “Now taking the opportunity to return to his hometown team, we thank Liam for his efforts during his time at the club, and wish him all the very best for what we’re sure will be a successful future.”
Meanwhile, Irish Cup-winning midfielder Gordon is also making a homecoming after returning to Dungannon.
The 27-year-old midfielder started his career in the youth ranks at Stangmore Park before joining Sheffield United and also went on to enjoy spells at Motherwell and Partick Thistle.
Gordon returned to Northern Ireland with Larne in 2022, helping them seal their maiden Premiership title that season, and also picked up a Co Antrim Shield crown.
After two years with Cliftonville, Gordon is making his way back to Co Tyrone and admits it’s a special feeling.
"I’m delighted to be here,” he told the club’s media channel. “It’s obviously close to home, it’s where I came through the youth about 15 years ago now.
"I know so many people around here so I’m delighted to be back and it’s a good feeling.
"I’m buzzing and can’t wait to get going. It has probably been a frustrating time for me this last while but once I heard (about Dungannon interest) it made so much sense for me and I’m raring to get back on the pitch again.
"This club has a real family connection and the community around it, it’s so exciting for me.”