Irish League teenager signs pro deal then makes loan exit to Premiership rival
Irish League teenager Mikey Harkin has celebrated securing his long-term Larne future with a short-term loan switch to Glenavon.
The 18-year-old put pen to paper on a professional contract with Premiership leaders Larne before wrapping up a loan move to the top-flight’s bottom club Glenavon until the end of the season.
Glenavon manager Michael O’Connor feels Harkin can “bring something a little bit different” following the capture of the Northern Ireland schoolboy international.
“Mikey provides another attacking option for us and he’ll bring something a little bit different to the other players who can operate in that area,” said O’Connor on the official Glenavon website. “He’s a great young prospect who should go far in the game.
"We’re looking forward to seeing him in action and thoroughly believe he’ll add some of the quality we need in the final third.”
Harkin has enjoyed first-team minutes over league and cup play for Larne.
“It’s a proud day for me and my family,” said Harkin on the Larne website following his pro contract confirmation. “Since joining last year from Coleraine, I found it a lot tougher here when I arrived but I’ve been playing regularly with the U18s and U20s, alongside training with the first team so it has been a great experience.
“From making my debut and training regularly with the first team, I feel like I fit in really well with all of the boys and I have enjoyed every minute of it.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next for me at Larne Football Club.”