John Herron move to Belfast club breaks down

John Herron has pulled out of a move to Belfast Celtic after seemingly being poised to move to the West Belfast side.

Just 10 days after having his contract terminated by Larne FC, the 28-year-old midfielder held discussions about signing a short-term deal with the Ballymena and Provincial Intermediate League outfit.

Herron had his contract with the Irish League club “terminated by mutual agreement” after images circulated online wearing a t-shirt with a ‘pro-IRA’ message.

It is believed the photo was taken during last month's Wolfe Tones concert at the Féile an Phobail event in West Belfast.

Having originally been suspended by the Inver Reds, the club moved quickly to end their association with the player.

However, Herron looked set for a swift return to local football with Stephen McAlorum’s side.

In a statement issued to Belfast Live, the club said it was prepared to sign Herron, but the player opted to “pursue an opportunity elsewhere” with speculation that he is holding out for a move outside of Northern Ireland.

“We at Belfast Celtic live by our club ethos - all are equal. Further, we are here to provide the opportunity for all to play football,” the statement read.

“In our recent history we have shown we are happy to help any individual who can play football, to play football.

“We judge no person or individual on their culture, race , religion, sexuality or politics. We are about football

“We were delighted to have had the opportunity to sign a player of John Herron's quality.

“However he has decided to pursue an opportunity elsewhere. So despite reports to the contrary John is not signing for us. We would like to wish him well in his future career.”

Should Herron look to another local club, he wouldn’t be available for selection until November at the earliest after being hit with a 10-game ban by the Irish Football Association for ‘bringing the game into disrepute’.

After Herron parted company with Larne, the club issued a statement which read: “We can confirm John Herron has left the club, after his contract was terminated by mutual agreement.

“We would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our total commitment to being an inclusive football club.

“We will continue to be unwavering in our work to make Inver Park a place for all and will not allow this to be undermined in any way, shape or form.

“The club will be making no further comment on the matter.”

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