Looking through the window

A summer of comings and goings drew to a conclusion this evening when the Transfer Window slammed shut and, reviewing a busy spell of ins and outs, cliftonvillefc.net reflects on the last few months’ transfer activity.

It all began on June 17 when Cliftonville announced the signing of experienced former Carrick Rangers, Glentoran and Ballymena United defender Jonny Addis (above), whose arrival was followed some six weeks later by another ex-Glenman in Jamie McDonagh.

Midfielder Chris Gallagher duly made it a trio of players who had formally plied their trade at The Oval when he put pen to paper on August 12 before goalkeeper Luke McNicholas (below) arrived on loan from Sligo Rovers the following week.

Another loanee – and another Luke – was paraded up when Aberdeen defender Luke Turner signed following an impressive display as a trialist in the Reds’ pre-season friendly with Dungannon Swifts.

Though five new faces were added to Paddy McLaughlin’s squad, there were inevitable departures from the panel with Aaron McCarey (Glentoran) and Daire O’Connor (Ayr United) moving on alongside Thomas Maguire’s return to Warrenpoint Town on loan.

The summer Transfer Window then concluded with two other last-minute loan switches that saw Calvin McCurry (above) move to Ards as he bids to enjoy some regular football in the aftermath of the cruciate ligament injury that caused him to miss the entirety of last season, while young defender Stephen McGuinness will likewise benefit from some valuable experience at Queen’s University.