Ferguson closing in on Whites duo

The Ballymena United boss is hoping to tie up deals to secure Lisburn Distillery duo Gary Thompson and David Cushley.

“I have spoken to both players,” Ferguson confirmed to Times Sport.

“I would love to sign them both as I think they are both quality players - I’m sure other managers will think the same so we’ll wait to see what happens.

Distillery’s website has confirmed both Thompson and Cushley on a list of players who have either already left the Whites or who are leaving the club, and Ferguson is ready to make his move.

“I have known Gary since he was 17 years old and we were both at Linfield and he has the potential to be a really good midfielder.

“Ballymena fans will already be familiar with Cushley from his time at the club and both players are young enough to have their best years ahead of them, so hopefully we can sort something out,” added Ferguson, who has poured cold water on suggestions linking Shamrock Rovers striker Gary Twigg - who lives in Glenravel after marrying a local girl - with a move to Ballymena.

“Every club in this country would love to have a player of Gary Twigg’s quality but I can’t imagine too many having the finances to match a full-time deal that a player would be on at Shamrock Rovers.

“If, however, it was a case that he was wanting to move to a club closer to home, then I would certainly be happy to talk to him,” added Ferguson.

Meanwhile, United has announced another price freeze on season tickets for the new campaign.

Supporters can still avail of our successful early purchase discount scheme for up to 12.5% discount on your 2012/2013 season ticket if purchased before 30th June. This offer is on top of the great savings made by purchasing your ticket and will also financially benefit the football club.

Company Secretary Neil Coleman said: “The last two years have seen a dramatic increase in season ticket holders and we now offer our supporters more options than ever and also the ability to apply securely and quickly online for their season ticket.”

Season tickets will be on sale as usual from Stirling Trophies from Friday 1st June and will be available at any of Ballymena United’s pre-season friendlies, including the club’s Annual Open Day

For more information or to purchase your 2012/2013 Ballymena United season ticket visit the official website www.ballymenaunitedfc.com or contact Company Secretary Neil Coleman via e-mail at [email protected].

Season ticket prices for 2012/13 are (early purchase discount price in brackets): adult - £160 (£150); Senior citizen (men over 65 or women over 60) - £95 (£85); youth (under-18) - £95 (£85); student (currently in full-time education) - £95 (85); Junior Sky Blues (children under-12) - £25; family ticket (one adult and two children under-16 from same family) - £240 (£210); directors’ ticket - +£50.