'Unique player' signs for Portadown after undisclosed fee is agreed with fellow Irish League side
Portadown have completed the capture of “unique player” Ben Kennedy in a surprise move from fellow Irish League side Ballymena United.
The 29-year-old, who is accustomed to playing just behind the striker, has joined David Jeffrey’s side for an undisclosed fee.
Kennedy began his senior career across the water at Stevenage, making 167 appearances for the EFL outfit and scoring 31 goals.
However, he made a return home and signed for Crusaders, going onto score 39 goals in 109 games for the Hatchetmen.
Most recently, he has been on the books at Ballymena United which comes to an end after 17 goals from 42 appearances.
Kennedy was an unused substitute in Ballymena’s impressive 3-0 win against Linfield at Windsor Park last weekend.
Portadown Head of Recruitment and Football Operations, David Douglas, said the following about the club’s new arrival: “Ben Kennedy is a unique player who will add to experience, creativity, guile and goalscoring threat to our team.
"He is a confident player who brings personality to any team.
“Obviously I know Ben from my time at Ballymena and know how positive an influence he is around a changing room and the leadership he shows on the pitch
“We are delighted to have Ben on board to add to the new recruits we have brought in this window and would like to thank Ballymena United for their professionalism and cooperation.”
Confirming the news about Kennedy’s departure, a statement by Ballymena United on social media reads: “The player informed the club this week he wished to seek a move away from the Showgrounds, which was reluctantly accepted."
It adds: “Everyone at Ballymena United would like to sincerely thank Ben for his important contribution to the club during his time and wish him every success in the future.”
It wasn’t disclosed if Kennedy’s registration was cleared in time to make a potential debut in Saturday’s visit of Dungannon Swifts.
Meanwhile, Bangor have completed the signing of midfielder Mackenzie Strachan, who joins after the expiry of his contract with Scottish League One side Cove Rangers.
The 22-year-old, who was capped at U19 level by Scotland and progressed through Rangers’ academy, joins the Seasiders on a two-year deal.
Strachan has also previously been on the books of Stranraer and Annan Athletic.