Gareth Deane joins Coleraine as striker Emmett McGuckin leaves by mutual consent

Goalkeeper Gareth Deane has signed a two-year deal with the Bannsiders while striker Emmett McGuckin has left the club by mutual consent.

Deane makes his move to Coleraine permanent after joining on loan from Linfield in July.

"Ability wise I think Gareth is right up there with the best in the country," Coleraine boss Oran Kearney told the club website.

McGuckin departs after spending 14 months at the Showgrounds.

The former Derry GAA forward made 14 appearances for the Ballycastle Road club and scored four goals.

"It's been a tough year for Emmett as we signed him off the back of him having no pre-season," said Kearney.

"His club side Magherafelt had an unbelievable run in the Championship and we would never begrudge or change that for him.

"However, that inhibited him here during the months that we were going well and then Covid-19 hit in and it's made it a stop-start season for someone who had been used to playing football regularly.

"His attitude has been fantastic, he's a top man and he's been brilliant to have about the place.

"It wasn't a case of us saying 'Emmett we would like you to go' it was more along the lines of him wanting more football.

"It speaks volumes for Emmett that he doesn't want to sit here and pick up a wage, he just wants to play and we wish him all the best."

Meanwhile Glentoran's Jonny Frazer has gone on loan to Carrick Rangers.