Larne manager Gary Haveron believes Sean Graham is “far, far too good” to be playing in the Irish League – but is more than happy to have “an unbelievable player" at his disposal.

Graham has won two Premiership titles since joining the Inver Reds from Ballymena United in 2023 and played a significant role in last season’s success, making 35 league appearances on his way to being included in NIFWA’s ‘Team of the Season’.

The 25-year-old has developed into one of Larne’s most consistent and trusted performers across a golden period of glory, representing the Inver Park club with distinction on both European and domestic stages.

A former Northern Ireland U21 international, Graham has previously enjoyed time across the water – he joined Blackpool from Crusaders in 2017 and was loaned to Larne during his stint in England.

placeholder image — Larne manager Gary Haveron. (Photo by Andrew McCarroll/Pacemaker Press)

While Haveron remains shocked versatile Graham hasn’t been spotted by a club further up football’s food chain following an impressive run at Larne, he feels the loss of others is his gain.

"I love him,” said Haveron after Graham scored in Friday’s 2-1 Premiership win over Glentoran. “Sean Graham's an unbelievable player.

"He should not be playing in this league. He's far, far too good. Why he hasn't got opportunities ahead of now, I have no idea.

"But it's our blessing to have him. He's an absolutely brilliant, brilliant player and he showed that yet again (against Glentoran).”

Defending champions Larne played just their second Premiership match of the season on Friday night – but will now get firmly into their stride as Bangor visit Inver Park on Tuesday night.

It’s the second of six league fixtures facing Haveron’s men this month with tests against Portadown, Cliftonville, Carrick Rangers and Dungannon Swifts also awaiting in September.

Ronan Doherty was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his role in Friday’s victory over the Glens with the midfielder continuing an impressive start to a first full season at the Co Antrim club after joining from Coleraine in January.

The 30-year-old started in all eight of Larne’s European matches across the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League this summer – their run ended with a cruel play-off loss to Lincoln Red Imps.

Doherty will undoubtedly have a crucial part to play if Larne are to successfully defend their Gibson Cup crown this season and Haveron is thrilled with the form of the ex-Cliftonville midfielder.

"He's been brilliant,” added Haveron. “Obviously, we know all his qualities.

"If you give him a chance, he'll dictate games and I think that's what he did (against Glentoran).

"He dictated a lot of the game and a lot of the play, especially in the first 60 minutes of the game. I thought he was sensational.

"I could wax lyrical about most of the boys for near enough every single performance.”