Declan Devine delighted with return of Darren Cole

The 'Journal' revealed last week the Scotsman had agreed to extend his stay at the club and the Candy Stripes have officially announced his signing this afternoon with the promise of at least two others to follow.

Cole is, alongside his defensive partner, Eoin Toal, the club’s longest serving current player. He celebrated his 29th birthday last week and his return was warmly welcomed by manager Declan Devine.

“Everybody knows the quality that Darren Cole brings to the club” said the City boss.

“He struggled with injury last season but when he is fit there are few better, more versatile defenders in the league.”

“It’s been very difficult for him to get back to full fitness in the middle of a pandemic but Darren is already in the gym and is showing real determination to be ready. With a solid pre-season under his belt we all know how good he can be.”

Cole was being tracked by clubs on both sides of the border during the close season but is clearly relishing the challenge of another year at his adopted home.