Ruaidhri Higgins pleased to add to his defensive options with the arrival of 'smashing player'
Coleraine have continued their summer recruitment by announcing the arrival of Aidan Wilson.
The defender is no stranger to Irish League after spending two years at both Crusaders and Glentoran, where he tasted Irish Cup success with the former.
Bannsiders boss Ruaidhri Higgins had hinted at defensive arrivals after the loss of Mark Connolly to Derry City in the off-season, as well as doubts surrounding the future of Charles Dunne.
Connolly has been appointed as Director of Football at the Brandywell, whilst Higgins has been open and honest about the fact Irish Cup holders are aiming to keep Dunne on the books for next season.
However, he has swooped to land Wilson’s services after the defender’s deal came to an end at his former club Airdrieonians.
Scotsman Wilson has also enjoyed loan spells at Dumbarton, Forfar Athletic and Edinburgh throughout his career.
The former Rangers graduate, who made two first-team appearances at Ibrox, joins Jay Henderson, Ben Doherty and Conor McMenamin in signing for Coleraine this summer.
“Aidan spent a week with us in Portugal, trained really well and physically he’s in really good condition,” Higgins told the club’s official website.
“We know the qualities that he possesses and all the background checks we made were very good.
“He had a great football education at Rangers as a young boy, and he’s 27-years-old and we know we have a smashing player on our hands.
“We weren’t expecting Mark Connolly to leave the club, so it was really important that we brought someone in with quality, and Aidan certainly has all the credentials.
“It is important for players that they like the environment they are in, and I feel we are creating a really good environment for players to fulfil their potential.”
Wilson will wear the number 16 jersey during his tenure on the Ballycastle Road and he believes his former Irish League experience will be beneficial for the latest chapter of his career.
He stated: “I’m delighted and it’s great to be here.
“I spent a week in Portugal with the team, got on really well and everything was really professional, which was a big plus for me.
“I think it’ll stand me in good stead that I’ve had previous spells with Crusaders and Glentoran for coming here as I know the league and what it’s about.
“The squad the gaffer has assembled here is excellent, especially with the signings over the last 18 months have been great for the club.”