United boss backs new striker to impress

Michael McLellan and Aaron Stewart will now be team-mates at Ballymena United, following the striker's move from Portadown. Picture: Press Eye.

Former Preston North End apprentice McLellan had spent part of pre-season in the summer of 2012 training with Ballymena, catching the eye with four goals in a friendly at Ballymoney.

At that time, however, he opted to join Portadown but was unable to dislodge the likes of Kevin Braniff, Darren Murray and, latterly, Gary Twigg from the Ports’ line-up.

Ferguson completed the deadline day signing of McLellan with the 20-year-old signing until the end of the season.

“We’ve been looking at our striking options for around six weeks and when it became clear Matthew Tipton wouldn’t be leaving Linfield due to their growing injury list, we spoke again to Ronnie McFall about Michael.”

“We were very interested in signing him last summer, but Portadown got him at the last minute, although he didn’t get much game time during the season.

“He just wants to play football and we’re delighted to be in the position to be able to offer him the chance to get into the squad and break into the first team.”

McLellan may play some part against his former employers Portadown in tonight’s (Tuesday) Danske Bank Premiership home game (7.45).

United’s other piece of trasnfer deadline day business saw transfer-listed defender Chris Rodgers have his contract terminated by mutual consent. He has joined Championship Two neighbours Wakehurst.

The Sky Blues are also at home this Saturday when league champions Cliftonville are the visitors (3pm).

United’s new matchday programme will be on sale for the first time at Saturday’s game, priced at £2.50.