Institute: McCallion inspired to play on because of ex-team-mate’s plight

McCallion, who along with Shane McGinty and Aidan McCauley signed for the Waterside men on Thursday, admits Mark Farren’s much-publicised plight has encouraged him to keep on going.

“You look at Mark’s (Farren) situation, you just don’t know what’s around the corner, so if you are still feeling fine and healthy, then I say keep playing as long as you can,” stated McCallion.

“I don’t want to be one of those players who hangs up his boots and then maybe a few months when the season is started think, I should still be playing.”

Only a few weeks ago boss Kevin Deery wanted to add more experience to his side and the addition of the 36-year-old certainly ticks all the boxes.

The former Derry City, Glenavon and Bangor defender has played at the highest level for over 15 years and he can play anywhere in the back four.

Winger McGinty has some Danske Bank Premiership experience after playing for Coleraine last season.

While teenager McCauley will be getting his first taste of senior football after performing well with John Quigg’s Under 19 Derry City side last year and he can play either at right-back or central midfield.

McCallion is already looking forward to the season and feels the Drumahoe men can do more than hold their own.

“I feel if we are organised well and work hard then I can’t see why we can’t compete,” he added.

“The squad is very young, but that means players are hungry to be successful and that’s what you need if you want to do well.”