Gareth Deane agrees permanent switch to Coleraine

Deane had originally joined the Bannsiders on a short term loan deal playing in their three Europa League qualifying games, including their famous win over NK Maribor.

But the 26-year-old has made the switch permanent ahead of the new season kick-off on October 17.

"We are delighted to get everything done and welcome Gareth to the club on a permanent basis,” Coleraine boss Oran Kearney told the club website.

“When Chris (Johns) left we were on a hunt to secure a goalkeeper as close to the standard of Chris and Gareth ticks all the boxes.

“Ability wise I think he is right up there with the best in the country and the only thing that has hampered him in recent years is game time due to freakish injuries.

“However, I do believe with a run of games he will fulfil his true potential and with this two-year deal we can invest a huge amount of time into him.

“I would like to thank Linfield who were helpful in getting the deal over the line.”

Dean has put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal at The Showgrounds.

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