Ex-NI international signs for Strabane Athletic

FORMER Northern Ireland International Rory Patterson has signed for Northern Ireland Intermediate League side Strabane Athletic.

The much-travelled Patterson, a native of Strabane, was capped five times between 2010-14. During that period the striker played with Plymouth Argyle, Linfield (on loan) and Derry City.

In all Patterson has played for 18 clubs during a senior career that began at Rochdale in 2002 and which took him to Dungannon Swifts just last season.

The 37-year-old, who had particularly productive goalscoring spells at FC United of Manchester and Coleraine, believes he still has plenty to offer. After putting pen to paper for Athletic manager Eamon Curry he said, “I grew up with Eamon and I’ve worked with Marty at Derry. I know how good a coach he is.

“With the stand being built and allowing the chance of promotion, I’m excited to have a run at it and help the young lads whatever way I can and play a part in hopefully achieving that.”

Manager Curry was naturally enthusiastic about the prospects presented by his latest acquisition.

“We are delighted to get Rory in. What he will bring to the group is standards, drive and goals,” he said.

FULL STORY IN MONDAY’S TYRONE HERALD