Kernohan: I’m here for the long haul

The 24-year-old - one of a string of summer recruits brought in by boss Graham McConnell - has worn the red shirt before, during Paul Millar’s tenure.

Crucially, Kernohan, who has enjoyed spells with Amateur League sides Shankill United and Ards Rangers, views his return as an opportunity to establish himself as a Championsip 1 player. “I know I can play at that level if I put my mind to it,” he said.

“I have never really settled at one club and as much as I loved my time at Shankill and Ards Rangers, I’ll be 25 next month so I want to settle down and stick to one club. What better place than your hometown club?”

Asked if he sees himself staying put, his response was clear: “If Graham wants to keep me, yes. Definitely. I’m here for the long-term.”

That will be music to the ears of McConnell, who had a huge role to play in luring him back to Inver. “Graham had spoken to me a couple of times,” admitted Kernohan. “I just really liked what he had to say. Obviously, it’s closer to home again; that helps a lot.”

With the rigours of pre-season training in full swing, Kernohan has had the chance to have a good look around the squad and he gave this assessment of Larne’s potential for the season ahead.

“I think the signings have been very good. I’ve known Stuarty (King) and Mark Picking for a while. They are good, experienced players.

“We have also managed to keep hold of Paul Maguire, Chris Keenan, Niall McAllister and Scotty Irvine: that’s the spine of the team. Everything will probably be built around those players.

“I’ll be very surprised if there isn’t a top-six finish. I don’t think anybody will run away with the league this year. I’d say Carrick and Institute will start as favourites, but with the squad we have, I expect us to do alright.”