Ferguson excited about United’s season

The Sky Blues manager embarks on his fourth full season in charge at the Showgrounds, aiming to help United break into the top six bracket in the Danske Bank Premiership.

“We will certainly be looking to finish in the top six and also to challenge in cup competitions, the way we have done in the past couple of seasons,” said Ferguson.

“It certainly won’t be an easy task but the players and staff are all excited about the new season.”

United begin their Danske Bank Premiership campaign with a trip to Windsor Park to take on Linfield this Saturday (3pm).

“It’s a tough fixture - they all are - but it’s a good way to test ourselves against one of the top teams on the first day,” said Ferguson, who will assess skipper Allan Jenkins’ fitness after the ankle injury he sustained in pre-season.

The manager will also have defender Johnny Taylor available for Saturday’s game, as he awaits any further sanctions following his recent red card in a pre-season game at Ballyclare.

No decision will be taken on whether he will face a suspension until the IFA’s Disciplinary Committee holds its next meeting.

Seven Towers Supporters’ Club transport for Windsor Park leaves Henry Street car park at 1.45pm.

The club’s Joker promotion will be drawn prior to departure.