FOOTBALL: Black signs for the Bannsiders

Black put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal with the Bannsiders after agreeing terms with Showgrounds boss David Platt.

Coleraine fended off the challenge of a number of Carling Premiership rivals to secure the signature of the 26-year-old – Cliftonville, Ballymena United and Newry City were all linked with the former Larne man.

"I am delighted to have finalised the move. I am really looking forward to working with David Platt who impressed me the moment I met him," Black said.

"Coleraine have a progressive squad and they reached a cup final this season and also the Irish Cup semis. So they are a team that's going places."

Black turned down the offer of a new deal at Crusaders before opting for Coleraine, but insists he parted on amicable terms with the Seaview club.

"Crusaders is a great club and I made a lot of friends there but it was a frustrating season for me," he added.

"I spent a lot of time out injured with an Achilles problem and I have to say the artificial pitch did not help my recovery."

Coleraine boss David Platt said earlier in the week: "Aaron is a player I have admired for quite some time.

"He has a presence in midfield and can score goals. He can play in a number of positions which is a bonus."