FOOTBALL: It was a difficult decision - Boyce

The 25-year-old quit The Showgrounds last week to return to Glentoran, but he said he agonised over the decision for months, but in the end the striker said it was his disappointing form last season which persuaded him to move on to pastures new.

“It was a difficult choice for me,” said Boyce. “It was certainly a lot tougher than the last time I decided to go.

“I think I’ve made the right choice. I was really annoyed with my performances last season, I don’t think I did myself justice. So I think a new start and challenge will be the best thing for me.

“I’ve known of Glentoran’s interest since February and I’ve been weighing it up since then. I always kept Coleraine informed about what was happening and fair play to Oran he never put pressure on me.

“But there was no point in me staying if my heart wasn’t in it.

“As I said it come down to wanting a fresh start and I feel the Glens maybe are better positioned to challenge for honours at the minute.

“I think Oran will do a great job but it might take a couple of years for them to be up there. I really hope Coleraine can push the likes of Linfield and Glentoran.

“I’m 25 now and I want to be competing for the top honours. Scott Young has told me I’m going to be his main striker next season which is a big boost for me.

“It didn’t work out for me last time at The Oval, but Scott never wanted me to go. He has brought in Stephen Carson too so that will make it easier for me this time round too.

“I took a bit of stick from the fans this season but that had nothing to do with my decision, it was purely football. I can assure you I’ll be back at The Showgrounds cheering the lads on when I’m not playing.”

Oran Kearney said Boyce’s decision hasn’t affected his transfer plans.

“It’s a road Darren has been down before and he obviously feels things will be different this time. I’ve said in the past that I was approaching the transfer window with the idea that I would need to bring in four forwards and I have drawn up a list of targets who fit the bill for us and will hopefully have some positive news to report in the near future,” he said.

Kearney has had a busy week with four players signing on. Interviews with the new boys on Page 54