Coleraine suffer devastating injury blow with winger's season 'all but done' after receiving 'terrible news'

The 21-year-old has been an important member of Higgins’ squad since joining from Scottish side Airdie last summer, racking up 22 Premiership appearances.

McGregor had started in Coleraine’s last two league matches, including their 3-1 victory over reigning champions Linfield, but is now set for an extended period on the sidelines.

While it’s unclear if the rapid winger requires surgery at this stage, Higgins fears McGregor’s season could be over and admits it’s devastating news for both club and player.

"Lewis was coming into a bit of form but he has got terrible news on a thigh injury so his season could be all but done,” said Higgins. "That's the bit (operation) we're not sure about yet, but it's a long-term injury.

"It's disappointing. Lewis is such a great professional and I'm gutted for him and for us.

“Lyndon Kane is also out at the minute, he sat on the bench just to do us a favour last weekend but he wasn't right and still isn't right.

"Glacks (Jamie Glackin) is still out for the foreseeable future alongside the long-term lads.

"I'm really disappointed for Lewis...we have had a couple of injuries which have been long-term, which is disappointing, but it opens the door for others and they have to be ready to take opportunities."

Coleraine confirmed their fourth new arrival of the January window on Thursday after announcing the signing of Shelbourne captain Mark Coyle, who Higgins hopes will "help build a culture that turns us into winners”.

With Mark Connolly, James Akintunde and Ben Wylie also joining this month, Higgins anticipates a number of players will depart The Showgrounds.

"More will potentially leave the club than what we bring in,” he added. “You've got two or three windows to build your own team and that's the way we're looking at it.

"Hopefully by the end of this window we will be a step closer to looking how we want to."