Ports boss highlights new signing Byrne's '˜drive to win'

Byrne was in town on Tuesday night during the Ports’ 6-1 success over Donegal Celtic, with the club hoping to secure international clearance for the player to make his debut tomorrow (Saturday) against Carrick Rangers.

The deal to sign the experienced midfielder marks a reunion between Byrne and McGibbon following a previous spell together at Monaghan United.

“Alan is someone I know well from our time at Monaghan,” said McGibbon. “He can also play along the backline but we see him as a screening midfielder who can allow other players to move forward.

“It is about opening up options tactically and helping us overall, with someone like Robert Garrett possibly able to impact a game higher up the pitch.

“Alan is physical and, at 33 years old, experienced but still with that drive to win we want in every player and a great addition to the changing room.

“We are still looking at signing another striker.”

McGibbon has sent Jake Richardson, Pauddy Judge and Christian Stewart to Annagh United on short-term deals.

“I was pleased with the performance against Donegal Celtic, especially from an attacking viewpoint,” said McGibbon, who is attempting to arrest a run of three successive Danske Bank Premiership defeats under the weight of a 12-point penalty imposed by the Irish Football Association. “The cup result should help lift everyone and we are all aware of the importance of picking up league points as quickly as possible.”

Portadown host Carrick Rangers this weekend, with kick-off 3pm.