Cliftonville's 'complete striker' Ronan Hale hits new levels as speculation mounts

Gerard Lyttle believes Ronan Hale has taken his game to a new level as the Cliftonville striker continues to be linked with a move across the water. Hale capped off an impressive season with two goals in this month's Irish Cup final, helping the Reds end their 45-year wait for the famous trophy.

The Solitude front man overcame an injury early in the season to become one of the most influential figures in Cliftonville's cup-winning campaign, a year that also saw them finish third in the Premiership and qualify for Europe.

Assistant manager Lyttle has praised the 25-year-old who he says "bought into the philosophy" of new boss Jim Magilton. He also believes Hale has turned into a "complete striker" after returning from injury.

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Lyttle said: "We have got the best out of Ronan. And it's a credit to him that he is being linked with moves across the water.

"But with Ronan, he is settled. He has a young family and it would have to be the right move for him, and if it doesn't happen then we will look after him. He is in the right place here.

"I am friendly with Ronan's family, and I remember a few years ago they asked me to help him out which I did. He then went to Crusaders and got a move across the water. I understand Ronan, and I think he has been misunderstood during his career.

"We know clubs will be looking at some of our players. That's a credit to them. Ronan has been one player who bought into Jim and my philosophy.

"I have been working with Ronan as far back to when Tommy Breslin was here. And even when he was here in the youth team."

Despite speculation linking Hale with a summer move, Lyttle says there has been "nothing official".

He added: "We hear the same rumours and reports, but that's all. We haven't received any official contact. Ronan is a big game player and is capable of anything.

"This the leanest and fittest I have seen Ronan, and his pressing and work rate back has been exceptional. We have a complete centre forward in Ronan. He sets things up and he scores important goals for us."

Lyttle also praised the performances of Ben Wilson last season. The former Brighton and Hove Albion striker was in prolific form before an injury stalled the latter part of his campaign.

He returned at the end of the season, and was pivotal in winning possession for Hale's iconic goal deep into added time in extra-time at this month's Irish Cup final.

Lyttle said: "Ben banged in 17 goals and was top of the scoring charts, but unfortunately he got an injury. We had both our centre forwards out at different stages of the season. It says a lot about what we achieved.

"It was good getting Ben back at the end of the season, and he played an important part in the Irish Cup final. He is a brilliant kid."

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