Former Irish League defender 'buzzing' to join old Coleraine team-mate at Welsh third-tier club
Former Coleraine defender Adam Long says he’s “buzzing” to play alongside Declan McManus once again after joining his old Irish League team-mate at Bangor City 1876.
The third-tier Welsh outfit pulled off a major transfer coup by securing the services of McManus, who won three Cymru Premier titles and two Golden Boots during a trophy-laden spell at The New Saints, following his departure from Coleraine last month.
McManus has now been reunited with Long after he also left the Bannsiders by mutual consent in January having made five Premiership appearances.
Long came through the youth ranks at Wigan Athletic before making 14 league appearances for the senior side and also enjoyed a loan spell at Notts County.
He joined Doncaster Rovers in 2022 and played 15 times in League Two during the 2022/23 campaign.
Long was on the books of AFC Fylde before making a move to Northern Ireland and scored in Coleraine’s 2-1 win at Glenavon in August.
He hadn’t featured in the Premiership since November 1 – a 5-1 home victory over the Lurgan Blues – and departed in search of more minutes.
Bangor City 1876 were formed in 2019 by the supporters association of Bangor City, who were officially dissolved in January 2025, and have their sights set on pushing up the Welsh pyramid.
After signing for the club, Long said: “I’m buzzing to be able to play with him (McManus) again.
"I think everyone knows what he brings to the table in terms of goals and leadership.”
Bangor City 1876 currently sit top of the Ardal North West by three points after winning 16 and drawing two of their 19 matches to date.
McManus’ move shocked many in Welsh football given his prolific track record, but Director of Football Lee Dixon believes it shows the club’s vision.
“I am delighted that Declan has joined us on a 18 month contract, and while we have been patient in the transfer market it seems our patience has paid off ensuring we get the right players to progress not only this season but for the future,” he said. “Discussions have been intense for over a week and credit to the chairman for backing us in the market.
"I’m sure Declan will be a massive hit with the fans and gives Johnno (manager Michael Johnston) the quality he needs to push on. It shows our intent and ambition as a club and credit to Declan his desire to join our club was refreshing to see.”