Carrick Rangers sign forward Waide from Loughgall

Carrick Rangers have completed the signing of striker Ryan Waide from Loughgall.

The 25-year-old, who previously had a loan spell at Carrick, made 45 appearances for the Villagers, scoring 11 goals after joining from Ballymena United in January 2024.

Waide had joined Ballymena in the summer of 2020 and played 140 times for the Braidmen, scoring 18 goals.

The forward is delighted to be returning to his hometown club, this time on a permanent basis.

"The last time I was at the club I was still a young kid, 18 years of age, but I've played a lot of games in the Premiership since then and I'm still only 25.

"I've matured a lot within the game and understand the game in the Premiership a lot more as I have a couple of hundred games under my belt.

"As soon as I knew it was a possibility to come back home and play for my hometown club it was a no-brainer and I made it very clear from the start that this was a deal that excited me and something I wanted to get done as quickly as possible."

Carrick manager Stephen Baxter commented: "Ryan is a local boy who I believe has yet to reach his full potential.

"I know his excellent ability to take people on and score goals will flourish in this new environment and show everyone what he's all about."