Captain Ryan Rainey among eight to commit to Finn Harps

Captain Ryan Rainey is one of eight players who have been confirmed as staying at Finn Harps for the 2024 season despite the club moving to a ‘hybrid’ model as opposed to the full-time set up that was in place.

Rainey was installed as the captain following the departure of Keith Cowan in late July.

The Bonagee man, a former Wolverhampton Wanderers youth, played 21 times for Harps this season, scoring four goals.

He is among a large group to commit to the club. Harps had signed several players on full-time deals, but following a difficult season and financial constraints they will now work under what manager Darren Murphy says is a ‘hybrid’ model in 2024.

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Donegal men Patrick Ferry, Sean O’Donnell and Stephen Doherty have all signed new deals at Finn Park, while German goalkeeper Tim Hiemer will also stay in Ballybofey.

Defenders Matty Makinson and Jamie Watson and midfielder Max Hutchison - a son of former Premier League player Don - who all signed on 18-month contracts in the summer are also to remain at the club.

“I’m over the moon that the lads have committed to us for next season,” Harps manager Darren Murphy said.

“Most of these lads signed deals to play full-time football, but due to a number of factors we will be moving to more of a hybrid model for the coming year.

“Since I took charge, I’ve been meeting with members of last year’s squad to explain the situation and I wouldn’t have blamed anyone for taking issue with the changes but to their credit, these boys have taken it in their stride and have committed themselves to the club, and to the supporters.”

These signings, coupled with the confirmation that Tony McNamee and Kevin Jordan have also put pen to paper for 2024, give Murphy a good starting point as he gets to work.

He said:  “I’ve said a few times already that I’m only looking for players who want to be here for the right reasons, to play for a club and community that they are proud to represent.

“These lads have shown me that in abundance and I’m looking forward to getting back to work on the training pitch with them in January."