Carrick Rangers announce signing of Northern Ireland international

Carrick Rangers have announced the signing of Luke McCullough on a three-year deal. The 30-year-old arrives at Taylors Avenue following his release from Glentoran at the end of last season.

McCullough - who has been capped six times by Northern Ireland - made 117 appearances in four seasons at the Oval, but is now preparing for a new challenge with Stuart King's side.

The former Manchester United academy starlet brings a wealth of experience to Carrick, having previously played for clubs including Cheltenham Town., Doncaster Rovers and Tranmere Rovers.

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McCullough told Carrick's website: “I am delighted to be here. It’s an exciting time following a seventh place finish last season and, after meeting up with Stuart (King) and Peter (Clarke), it is clear that the club is looking to kick on again so I am excited to come and be a part of it.”

Carrick boss King believes McCullough's leadership will be a key asset next season.

He added: “I am so happy to add Luke to our squad. He is a full international whose leadership and technical ability will be a massive asset to us and is yet another signing that strengthens our team.

"I must give credit to my board for their help with this transfer and to Luke who chose Carrick despite strong offers from other clubs.”

McCullough follows on the heels of Carrick's signing of former Glentoran teammate Seanan Clucas.

The defender made his Northern Ireland debut back in 2014 in a summer friendly against Uruguay, and also played against Chile during the same tour.

McCullough also played in the 3-1 win over Greece which booked Northern Ireland's place at the Euro 2016 finals but was an unused sub during the tournament.

A knee injury stalled his progress for club and country, but he returned to play in a friendly against Costa Rica in 2018, his last appearance for Northern Ireland.

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