Heatley: I’m happy at Taylor’s Avenue

CARRICK Rangers star Paul Heatley says he has “every intention” of staying at Taylor’s Avenue as the club prepares for life in the Carling Premiership.

The 23-year-old told the Times he is very happy at Carrick but also admitted he has been “flattered” by the interest of other clubs.

Heatley has yet to sign a deal with Rangers for the new campaign but hopes to put pen to paper on a new contract this week. That news will be welcomed by the Amber Army, who hold the Glengormley man in very high regard following his sensational breakthrough season.

“The club, as far as I’m aware, is still negotiating in terms of their budget with the IFA so myself and the rest of the players are still waiting really but we anticipate our contracts being sorted this week,” he said.

“I’m very happy at Carrick and I have not really any intention of leaving. Of course it’s flattering when other clubs show an interest but I have every intention of staying at Taylor’s Avenue.”

A former Cliftonville youth and reserve team player, Heatley caught the eye of Rangers supremo Stevie Small while playing against Carrick in the Intermediate Cup for Belfast side Brantwood back in August 2010. Since then the lively winger hasn’t looked back and having quickly established himself in the team, his 18-goal haul was instrumental in helping the club win the Championship 1 title and the WKD Core Intermediate Cup.

Heatley, who scored the winning goal in the Cup final, admitted he has “heard from a couple of teams” but said he hopes to commit his future to Rangers.

“The players are eager to get their contracts sorted for peace of mind and once they are settled we can look forward to giving it a real go in the Premiership.

“I’m sure the manager has a target drafted up as to where he’d like us to finish and we’ll be out to surprise a few people who think we’ll be relegation candidates.”

Report by John Gillespie

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