Larne announce return of Northern Ireland U19 star from Aberdeen before loan move confirmed
Larne have confirmed the return of Northern Ireland U19 international Noah McDonnell after a spell in Scotland with Aberdeen.
The 18-year-old spent time at Newington, Linfield and the Inver Reds before earning a dream move across the water to the Dons, playing in the UEFA Youth League and Scottish Challenge Cup for the club’s B team.
McDonnell also gained senior experience during his time in Scotland at Elgin City, making three League Two appearances alongside featuring in the League Cup against East Kilbride and St Johnstone.
He has represented Northern Ireland through various underage levels and made his U19 debut in a European Championships qualifying win over Azerbaijan in March.
McDonnell signed a two-year contract with Aberdeen in 2024 after being scouted by the club’s connections in Northern Ireland.
“Noah was a player that was first spotted by our Northern Ireland Lead Scout Gareth Elder and who has subsequently been followed closely with our Head of Youth Academy Recruitment Jim Fraser,” Youth Academy Director, Stuart Glennie, told the club’s website at the time. “He is a right sided defender that has played at youth international level for Northern Ireland, where he has also captained his country for a two-year period, most notably recently at the Victory Shield in Wales.
“Noah is one we identified as an emerging talent and he enjoyed a successful trial period at Cormack Park where he performed well and demonstrated clear leadership qualities.
"As a Youth Academy we always strive to bring players through our ranks but we have to be aware of potential top talents further afield.”
McDonnell has returned ahead of Larne’s Conference League play-off second leg showdown with Lincoln Red Imps as Gary Haveron’s side look to book their spot in the League Phase – they hold a 2-0 advantage heading into Thursday’s clash.
He will now spend the rest of this season on loan at Championship club H&W Welders alongside Larne team-mate Mikey Harkin.
The Welders posted: “Both players add further quality, energy and competition to the squad as we continue our campaign, and we’re looking forward to having them with us.”