Ferguson signs new United deal - and snaps up two players

Nathan Hanley, pictured here in action for Crusaders, and David Cushley will be team-mates at Ballymena United next season. Picture: Press Eye.

Ferguson has put pen-to-paper on a one-year extension which will see him contracted to the Sky Blues until 2017.

The former Glenavon and Linfield striker replaced Roy Walker as boss on December 31, 2011 and won the County Antrim Shield in 2012.

He also guided Ballymena to the Irish Cup final in 2014 and last season’s League Cup final.

“I am delighted to sign the new deal,” Ferguson said.

“It is good to get things over the line and now we can look to the future.

“It is a work in progress at the club and we believe we are heading in the right direction and can improve next season.”

Ferguson has also added two more names to his squad with the signings of Willie Faulkner from Ards and Nathan Hanley from Crusaders.

Hanley – who left the Sky Blues to join Linfield in 2011 – has signed a two-year deal, while Faulkner has agreed a one-year contract with the option of another year.

“I know a lot about the two lads and I am delighted to get them on board,” Ferguson added.

“I am pleased with the business we have conducted this summer, and things are looking positive for next season.

“The aim is always to try and finish in the top six, and also to contest the cup finals. We have been knocking on the door in the cup competitions recently, but we just need to get more consistency.

“Hopefully that will come.”