Surgenor and Stewart among United departures

Glenn Ferguson has released two of Ballymena United’s longest-serving players as he continues his summer re-building programme.
Mark Surgenor is one of five players released by Ballymena United. Picture: Press Eye.Mark Surgenor is one of five players released by Ballymena United. Picture: Press Eye.
Mark Surgenor is one of five players released by Ballymena United. Picture: Press Eye.

Defender Aaron Stewart and midfielder Mark Surgenor - who between them made almost 400 appearances for the Sky Blues - are among five players whose contracts at the Showgrounds will not be renewed,

Veteran goalkeeper Stuart Addis, defender Aaron Harris and January signing Eamon McAllister have also been deemed surplus to requirements.

Ferguson said: “We would like to thank the players for their hard work and dedication to Ballymena United and wish them all the best for their future careers.”

The manager has also promoted four reserve team players - midfielders Eoin Kane, Matthew Ferguson and Leroy Millar and striker Matthew Shevlin to his senior squad.

“Now is the right time and environment to bring these young players into the squad.

“We have been impressed both here at the Showgrounds, and from the players out on loan, at how far they have progressed and they deserve their chance in the senior team,” he added.

Ferguson has already signed goalkeeper Alan Blayney from Glenavon and midfielder Mark Magennis from Harland & Wolff Welders.