Dungannon Swifts make first transfer move as 'one of our own' returns to Irish League club
Michael McElhatton insists it was a “no-brainer for me” to return to Dungannon Swifts after becoming the club’s first new signing ahead of next season.
Cookstown native McElhatton came through the ranks at Dungannon United Youth and represented the Swifts up to U20 level before departing in 2024.
The 20-year-old joined Cookstown Olympic and then made a move to Premier Intermediate League outfit Dergview ahead of last season.
McElhatton scored seven goals in 21 appearances across all competitions for the Darragh Park club and was named Manager’s Player of the Year for his impressive performances.
Dungannon have recorded consecutive top-half Premiership finishes alongside appearing in back-to-back Irish Cup finals and McElhatton can’t wait to get started.
“I’m absolutely buzzing to be back at the club,” he said. “The first time I chatted to Rod (McAree) and Dixie (Robinson), my mind was made up straight away, it was a no-brainer for me.
"The Swifts is a club I’ve always loved since joining Dungannon United Youth at 13 from Cookstown Youth.
"When I left just over a year-and-a-half ago due to other commitments, it was always my aim to come back, work hard, and break into the first team.”
Dungannon manager Rodney McAree is looking to strengthen his Swifts squad as they aim to continue competing against Northern Ireland’s elite and is thrilled to have secured McElhatton’s return.
“I'm delighted to bring Michael back to the Swifts,” he said. “He has had a great season with Dergview and gained valuable experience.
"I’m really excited with what’s to come from Michael and can’t wait to get him involved with the group in pre-season.
He’s one of our own as well, which is great, so it’s important that we keep producing good quality for the future of our club.”
Dergview coach Andrew Sproule admits McElhatton’s departure is a blow to the club but insists he has earned a chance to play at the top-tier of Irish League football.
“Michael is a brilliant example of how this club gives young players the opportunity to flourish at a high level,” said Sproule. “His performances, attitude and application have earned him this move to Dungannon and we wish him every success in this next chapter.
“We will miss him dearly, both on and off the pitch.
"Even when injured he travelled home and away supporting the lads, which says everything about his character. Michael and his family integrated brilliantly into the club and supporter base and they will always be welcome at Darragh Park.
“We would also like to thank Dungannon Swifts and their staff for the professional manner in which this transfer was handled.”
Reflecting on his time at Dergview, McElhatton said: “I’d like to thank everyone involved with Dergview FC – the players, staff, supporters and everyone around the club – for last season.
"I enjoyed every minute of my time here and learned a lot both on and off the pitch.
“Moving to the Irish Premiership with Dungannon Swifts is a massive opportunity for me, especially returning to a club where I spent much of my youth career, but I’ll always be grateful for the support and memories from my time at Dergview.
“I wish the lads and the club nothing but success for next season and hopefully our paths cross again soon.”