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13 Jan 2026
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13 Jan 2026
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Dungiven-born teenager Mikey Harkin has cemented his long-term future at premiership leaders Larne FC by signing his first professional contract. Immediately following the signing, the 18-year-old winger wrapped up a short-term loan move to the Irish League's bottom club, Glenavon FC, where he will remain until the end of the season to gain valuable senior experience.
Harkin was a key figure in the Northern Ireland Schoolboys' Centenary Shield victory in 2024 and has quickly progressed through Larne’s development ranks since joining their Scholarship Programme in January 2025.
Glenavon Manager Michael O’Connor expressed his enthusiasm regarding the new arrival.
“Mikey provides another attacking option for us and he’ll bring something a little bit different to the other players who can operate in that area,” O'Connor said.
“He’s a great young prospect who should go far in the game. We’re looking forward to seeing him in action and thoroughly believe he’ll add some of the quality we need in the final third.”
READ NEXT: Former Shelbourne captain Mark Coyle joins Coleraine
Harkin has already made club history at Larne, playing a crucial role in the U18 Academy League triumph last season, which saw the club qualify for the UEFA Youth League. He delivered a man-of-the-match performance in their debut European tie against Racing Union of Luxembourg. His strong form earned him a senior first-team debut for Larne in September 2025, followed by a Premiership debut days later.
“It’s a proud day for me and my family,” Harkin said upon signing his professional contract at Larne.
“Since joining last year from Coleraine, I found it a lot tougher here when I arrived but I’ve been playing regularly with the U18s and U20s, alongside training with the first team so it has been a great experience.
“From making my debut and training regularly with the first team, I feel like I fit in really well with all of the boys and I have enjoyed every minute of it.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next for me at Larne Football Club.”
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