Glenavon manager Michael O’Connor feels new recruit Ryan Waide is “coming into the peak of his career” after the former Linfield winger agreed a switch from Carrick Rangers.

Waide started his senior career with the Blues and enjoyed loan spells at Ards, Carrick and Dungannon Swifts during his time on the books at Windsor Park before leaving for Ballymena United in 2020.

The former Northern Ireland U21 international scored 18 goals across his 140 appearances in all competitions for the Sky Blues.

Waide secured a switch to Loughgall during the 2023/24 season, netting nine times in 40 Premiership outings for the Villagers prior to their top-flight relegation the following year.

placeholder image — Former Linfield and Carrick Rangers winger Ryan Waide has joined Glenavon. (Photo by Desmond Loughery/Pacemaker Press)

The 26-year-old registered 17 league appearances for Carrick last term – his involvement was limited due to injury – and has now signed up for Glenavon’s Premiership promotion push next season.

Waide’s arrival helps fill the void left by the departure of Northern Ireland youth international Paul McGovern, who has secured a move to Scottish Premiership outfit Falkirk.

“When we knew that ‘Rooster’ would be available it was a no-brainer,” said O’Connor. “He’s got pace to burn and is coming into the peak of his career.

"With Paul McGovern moving to Falkirk we needed to move to replace him and believe ‘Rooster’ has that potential.

"It’s up to him now to prove that he can help get the goals we need to win the games to get back up.”

Waide joins Deaglan Healy and Brandon Doyle as new arrivals at Mourneview Park with the pair signing from Ballyclare Comrades.

Last month, Ballyclare revealed captain Doyle was departing the club after he “exercised a release clause in his contract”.

The former Linfield attacker, who also won an Irish Cup crown with Crusaders, scored 11 times in 25 Premier Intermediate League appearances last season and has previous Championship experience having played for H&W Welders.

“Brandon is a player with great quality and an eye for goal,” said O’Connor. “He’s been at some decent clubs and knows the responsibility that will be on his shoulders to provide the goals to put us in a position to push for promotion.

"It’s an opportunity he’s relishing and we’re excited to see him in action.”

Deaglan Healy, who is the brother of current Cliftonville striker Brian and ex-Newry City ace Noel, made 22 league appearances for Ballyclare last term after a move from St Oliver Plunkett’s.

“Deaglan is an exciting young talent,” added O’Connor. “That’s something the Glenavon fans have been used to over be last number of years and we’re hoping he can continue in that vein.

"He comes from good stock considering his brothers have both been around the Irish League for a good few years.

"They’re both solid pros and we believe Deaglan will apply himself in the same way and become an integral part of our squad as we push for promotion back to the Premiership.”

Glenavon have been further boosted by confirmation that talisman Peter Campbell has signed a new contract to remain at the Lurgan Blues for next season.

“Peter has been a key figure for us since I took over last season, and this show of commitment and loyalty is a huge statement for everybody involved at the club,” said O’Connor. “Peter’s desire to stay at the club and help us get back to where we belong is a major boost for us all.”