Northern Ireland star joins Scottish eighth-tier club backed by multi-millionaire in 'real statement of intent'

Lafferty, who sits second on his country’s goalscoring charts having netted 20 times in 89 international appearances, joins from Johnstone Burgh - another non-league Scottish club who he helped win the Scottish Junior Cup in 2025.

The 38-year-old had previously spent time in the Premiership with Linfield, making eight league appearances for the Blues, and has also enjoyed spells at the likes of Rangers, Sunderland, Palermo and Norwich City.

Having helped Johnstone Burgh scale the Scottish pyramid, Lafferty now hopes to do the same with Forth.

“I’m really excited to get started at Forth Wanderers,” said Lafferty. “It's another project that I'm thrilled to be involved in and I can hopefully help the team climb the leagues and stamp their authority in the Junior leagues and beyond.”

Forth, who play in the West of Scotland League Second Division, are backed by Paul McManus, a drummer in Scottish band Gun.

McManus has ambitious plans for the Kingshill Park club and believes Lafferty’s arrival marks a “significant step”.

"We're absolutely delighted to welcome Kyle to Forth Wanderers,” said McManus. “His experience, quality and winning mentality speak for themselves, and securing a player of Kyle's calibre is a real statement of intent for everyone connected with the club.

“Gerry and I have shared a clear ambition to build a squad that can compete, excite our supporters and raise standards.

“Kyle's arrival is another significant step in that journey. He's someone who knows what it takes to perform at the highest level, and his leadership both on and off the pitch will be invaluable to the dressing room.

“But this is about more than what happens over 90 minutes on a Saturday.

"We want Forth Wanderers to be a club that inspires its local community, gives young people something to believe in, and creates opportunities for the next generation of players to develop and fulfil their potential.

“This signing demonstrates that Forth Wanderers is serious about its future.

"We're building something the local community can be proud of. There's still plenty of hard work ahead, but we're excited to see Kyle in a Forth Wanderers shirt."

Lafferty could make his debut for a Forth side who have won one of their opening four league matches of the season in Wednesday’s trip to Larkhall Thistle.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to secure the services of Laff,” said manager Gerry Ward. “He brings quality, experience, and an elite mentality to the club, and the players and my staff can’t wait to get working with him.

“It’s a real coup for both the club and the village, and it sends a clear message to the wider football community about the ambition and vision that both Paul and I share for the future of Forth Wanderers.

“We’re building something special here, and bringing in someone of Laff’s calibre is another major step forward on that journey.”