Ballymena United and Portadown have both confirmed contract extensions for key defenders as they look to tie down talent ahead of next season.

Sky Blues centre-back Daithi McCallion has signed a new deal at The Showgrounds until 2029 and believes working with manager Oran Kearney “can get the best out of me”.

The 20-year-old has been a standout performer since joining Ballymena from Derry City, initially on loan in 2024 before making his Irish League move permanent.

McCallion has racked up 71 Premiership appearances for the Co Antrim club, including 26 this season.

placeholder image — Ballymena United defender Daithi McCallion has signed a new contract extension. (Photo by Ballymena United FC)

Ballymena paid an undisclosed fee to secure McCallion’s services with Derry City inserting a buy-back clause into the deal, but he’s happy in his current environment and feels he can hit even greater heights.

"I'm delighted to extend my stay with the club,” he said. “From the day I arrived, I've been made to feel really welcome by everyone involved.

"The club have put their faith in me and that's what you're always looking for and I'm in an environment now to help me kick on.

"I've loved working with Oran. I feel he can get the best out of me and he is keen to help me develop and grow at this age. That excites me."

Kearney added: "We want to keep good players at the club and since I've come in, Daithí's been exceptional.

"His maturity is well beyond his age and it now shows.

"I'm starting to see a great level of consistency from him on the pitch, but his all round level of attitude and application is brilliant and he's an example for the other young players."

Meanwhile, Portadown have confirmed Lewis MacKinnon has committed his future to the club by signing a multi-year contract.

Former Rangers youngster MacKinnon arrived at Shamrock Park from Carrick Rangers ahead of last season and has been an important player for Niall Currie’s side.

The 23-year-old has made 57 Premiership appearances for the Ports and Currie believes it’s important for the Co Armagh club to secure their top talents as they look to build for the future.

"I’m delighted to have this young man commit to our club for the future,” he said. “We can’t build without tying down some of the great assets that we have so a huge thank you to our board in making this happen.

"He’s a young man with a wonderful future and we’re all delighted that he sees his future with us.”