We are delighted to announce the signing of defender Craig Farquhar from Ballymena United for an undisclosed fee.
The 20-year-old becomes the first signing of the transfer window for the NIFL Premiership Champions, as preparations continue for next month’s UEFA Champions League First Qualifying Round.
Farquhar arrives at Inver having risen through the ranks of the United’s Academy, having captained the under-20’s before breaking into their senior side on a regular basis last season.
He became a mainstay of their defence in the latter part of the season and scored the opening goal of their 2-0 Irish Cup semi-final victory over Larne at Seaview, with a towering header.
His final game for Untied then came in the Irish Cup final defeat to Crusaders, at the beginning of May.
Larne boss Tiernan Lynch is now delighted to bring the young defender to the club: “Craig is a young player who has developed a lot over the last few years and showed his qualities at senior level last year.
“As a club, we have shown with a number of times how full-time football can play a hugely significant role in helping a player to progress even further and Craig is hungry to do that.
“He is a big strong boy with a lot of the attributes you need to be a centre half. We’re really looking forward to working with him and getting into the group as our preparations for Europe and new Premiership season continues.”
Craig himself is delighted to seal the move and admits the opportunity to take the step into full-time football was a big factor in the move.
“I’m over the moon to be joining the league champions and I can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“When I got the call that this was a possibility I didn’t think twice to be honest, full-time football is what I’ve always wanted since I started playing football.
“Champions League football is new to me and a big challenge for everyone, but I can’t wait to get going.”
Craig will wear the number 5 shirt at Inver Park this season.
