In a surprising turn of events, Conor McMenamin has transferred from Coleraine to Glentoran, a move that Coleraine manager Ruaidhri Higgins believes is beneficial for everyone involved. McMenamin, who joined Coleraine from St Mirren just ten weeks prior, has made the switch to the Oval, prompting a player exchange that saw midfielder Joe Thomson move in the opposite direction to the Showgrounds.
After the transfer was confirmed, McMenamin expressed his feelings to BBC Sport, stating that his time at Coleraine "wasn't meant to be." Higgins echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that sometimes in football, circumstances do not unfold as planned. "Sometimes in football and just life in general, things don’t go as expected or according to plan," Higgins remarked, highlighting that the decision was not personal. The 31-year-old winger had cited personal and family issues as contributing factors to his decision, particularly the challenges of commuting from Downpatrick to Coleraine, which is approximately 75 miles and takes about 90 minutes each way.
Higgins noted that the daily commute was "not sustainable" for McMenamin, and after several discussions, they reached a mutual understanding that the transfer was the best course of action. With injuries affecting the squad, particularly to Mark Coyle and Rowan McDonald, the addition of Thomson is expected to enhance Coleraine's midfield options. Higgins described Thomson as a player who brings a different dynamic to the team, noting his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.
Thomson, who previously played under Higgins at Derry City, is recognized for his all-action style and goal-scoring capability. "Joe is so different to the players that we have. He plays with an edge and he has a goal in him," Higgins stated, expressing confidence in Thomson's potential to make an immediate impact at Coleraine.
In addition to the McMenamin and Thomson transfers, Coleraine also secured the services of Adam Brooks from Crusaders. The 22-year-old forward had a standout season last year, including a hat-trick against Portadown, and Higgins has been monitoring his progress closely. Describing Brooks as a "young player with huge talent," Higgins believes he can develop into a significant asset for the club. "He scores good headed goals, with his right foot, left foot, he can score from distance and inside the six-yard box," Higgins noted, emphasizing Brooks' versatility and potential.
Coleraine finished just three points behind last season's champions, Larne, and with the club's transition to full-time football, expectations have risen significantly. The Bannsiders are now considered strong contenders for the Gibson Cup, with their last title win dating back to 1974. Higgins remarked on the significance of potentially winning the league in the club's centenary year, stating, "To me it’s trying to win the second league title in the club’s history, and it would be extra-special if you could do it in the centenary year."
With an unbeaten start to the season, including three wins and a draw against Larne, Coleraine aims to maintain their momentum as they prepare to face Crusaders. Higgins expressed satisfaction with the team's performance thus far, particularly highlighting their defensive solidity with three clean sheets in four matches. "We’re obviously really happy with the start, and we’re particularly happy with the three clean sheets out of four, and we’re scoring goals again which is pleasing," he concluded, looking ahead to the challenges that lie ahead in the season.
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