Crusaders have announced that two players, Jordan Williamson and Jude Winchester, have been made available for transfer. Meanwhile, Ballymena United has revealed their first summer signings ahead of the upcoming season.
Under the leadership of new manager Declan Caddell, Crusaders swiftly secured the signature of Jordan Stewart, a former playmaker for Glentoran and Linfield. However, it appears that Jordan Williamson and Jude Winchester are now likely to depart Seaview.
Williamson rejoined Crusaders from Ballymena last summer after spending four and a half years at the Showgrounds. His final appearance for Ballymena was in the Irish Cup final against Crusaders at Windsor Park. During his time with Crusaders, Williamson primarily served as an understudy to Jonny Tuffey, featuring in just one Premiership match last season. Nonetheless, his performance in that game was impressive, contributing to Crusaders’ 1-0 victory over Loughgall at Lakeview Park. This win marked the beginning of a successful run of form that ultimately secured European football for the following season.
In January 2022, Jude Winchester joined Crusaders from Ballymena, having previously showcased his talents at clubs like Kilmarnock and Cliftonville. The 31-year-old midfielder made 23 appearances in the most recent Premiership season, and he also contributed as a substitute in the European play-off final victory against Coleraine. Overall, Winchester amassed a total of 67 league outings during his time with the club.
Crusaders Football Club officially announced on their website that both Jordan Williamson and Jude Winchester have been made available for transfer ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Meanwhile, Ballymena United has confirmed the signings of Jack O’Mahony and Joe Moore, marking Jim Ervin’s first pair of summer acquisitions. O’Mahony, a former Northern Ireland youth international, recently departed Coleraine, while Moore left Dungannon Swifts upon the expiration of his contract in County Tyrone.
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