Crusaders sign goalkeeper with 'excellent potential and great attitude' from Derry City

The Crues have been in the market for a shot-stopper after Jonny Tuffey’s retirement was followed by the summer departure of Musa Dibaga to Scottish Championship club Dunfermline Athletic, who are managed by ex-Northern Ireland star Neil Lennon.

Callister has previously spent time in the academies of Burnley, Salford City and Hull City while he also enjoyed senior loan spells at the likes of Brighouse Town and Macclesfield before joining Derry City in February, signing a two-year contract.

The 20-year-old made his Premier Division debut in a 2-2 home draw against Dundalk a matter of days after arriving at the Brandywell and was on the bench for their recent Europa League defeat to CSKA Sofia of Bulgaria.

Liverpool-born Callister could now get an extended opportunity to build up senior experience at Seaview and Caddell is thrilled to have secured his services.

"We're delighted to welcome Shea to Crusaders,” Caddell told the club’s social media platform. “He's a young goalkeeper with excellent potential and a great attitude.

"Bringing him in gives us added competition and quality in the goalkeeping group, and we're looking forward to helping him continue his development throughout the season."

Announcing Callister’s Crusaders loan, Derry City posted: “We wish Shea all the best as he heads off to gain valuable first team experience and we look forward to monitoring his progress at Seaview during the season.”

After signing Callister, former Larne manager – and current Derry City chief – Tiernan Lynch told the club’s website: “He seems to be a good kid and he’s already making his presence felt around the place.

“Shea knows he has a lot to learn but he’ll be working with the right people here and he’ll have every opportunity to progress.

“It’s great for Shea that he’s on a pro contract because he has the time now to get his head down and really push on."