Rodney McAree predicts 'exceptional talent' could prove to be 'surprise package'

Cookstown native McElhatton came through the ranks at Dungannon United Youth and represented the Swifts up to U20 level before departing in 2024.

The 20-year-old joined Cookstown Olympic and then made a move to Premier Intermediate League outfit Dergview ahead of last season.

McElhatton scored seven goals in 21 appearances across all competitions for the Darragh Park club and was named Manager’s Player of the Year for his impressive performances.

He became McAree’s maiden signing of the window – McElhatton has since been followed by Jamie Glackin, Barney McKeown and Kris Lowe – and is preparing for a first taste of Northern Ireland’s top-flight.

Dungannon have featured in consecutive Irish Cup finals alongside recording back-to-back top-half Premiership finishes and McAree believes both McElhatton and Glackin could make a big impact in attacking areas.

"We’ve tried to be busy, look for areas we can improve in, and bring good people into the club,” McAree told the club’s media channel. “Michael had came through Dungannon United Youth, Dungannon Swifts, and is an exceptional talent.

"He probably couldn’t commit the way we wanted him to or the way he needed to, but things have changed for Michael and it gave us a good opportunity to bring him back.

"He has a terrific engine, is a hearty boy, and hopefully he will weigh in with goals. He could be a surprise package, he certainly has the capability to do that.

"We fell very lucky with Jamie...his days at Coleraine were finished and he wanted to move on. I literally had a five minute conversation with him on the phone and knew straight away he wanted to come back here.

"Anybody who knows me knows I think a lot of Jamie as a person and a player. He’s a very talented individual, has a great engine, can get up and down the pitch and get us higher up the pitch.

"He’s an exceptional footballer and is certainly someone I think can improve us, as the rest will.”

McAree has also looked to strengthen defensively with Dungannon aiming to improve on last season’s form – only relegated Glenavon conceded more goals than their 77.

Former Everton youngster McKeown has joined after captaining the Lurgan Blues last term and also enjoyed spells at Portadown and Newry City.

Having previously failed an in attempt to sign the 24-year-old, McAree is delighted to have landed his target and has full faith he will improve his squad for next season.

"I tried to sign Barney two years ago, unfortunately we missed out," he added. “Barney is a leader, a winner, a very good footballer.

"He went to Everton and served an apprenticeship there...you certainly have ability when you’re doing things like that.

"We’re really looking forward to integrating Barney into the squad and getting him going. We believe he’s going to improve us.”