Crusaders manager Declan Caddell believes the arrival of Ryan McKay on a season-long loan from Linfield will “increase competition within the squad” at Seaview.

The 21-year-old joined Linfield from Dundela in 2023 and has made 11 Premiership appearances for the Blues.

McKay spent last season gaining top flight experience at Carrick Rangers – he made 25 league appearances – and was included in Stephen Baxter’s matchday squad as the Co Antrim club celebrated Senior Shield glory by beating Cliftonville in the final on penalties.

He also started and played 90 minutes as Carrick were defeated by Dungannon Swifts in their European play-off showdown at Stangmore Park.

placeholder image — Crusaders manager Declan Caddell with Ryan McKay. (Photo by Crusaders FC)

The full-back becomes Caddell’s latest summer recruit after Graham Kelly, Aaron Reid, Thomas Maguire and Owen Wardell.

"We're delighted to bring Ryan to Crusaders,” Caddell told the club’s social media platform. “He's a talented left-back who has shown his quality at Premiership level, and we're pleased to have secured him for the season.

"He'll add real strength and depth to that position, increase competition within the squad, and we're looking forward to working with him over the coming months."

Crusaders are also on the hunt for a new goalkeeper after Jonny Tuffey’s retirement was followed by the departure of Musa Dibaga to Scottish Championship outfit Dunfermline Athletic, who are managed by ex-Northern Ireland international Neil Lennon.

Rian Brown remains on Crusaders’ books after returning from a loan spell at Newington while Caddell had a closer look at a trialist during their weekend pre-season friendly draw against Ballinamallard United.

Crusaders continue their preparations for the new Premiership season with a home clash against Glenavon on Tuesday evening.