Higgins sees a successful future

Ruaidhri Higgins believes that Coleraine have the potential to challenge for trophies if the squad is strengthened for next season.

The 30-year-old penned a two and a half year deal with the Bannsiders following a successful spell with League of a Ireland champions Dundalk, and he believes success may not be far away for his new side either.

“Before I signed I knew a lot about the club as I live nearby,” Higgins told Times Sport.

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“It’s a big club and if we can strengthen in certain areas there is no reason why we can’t challenge for trophies.”

The signing of Higgins caused an element of surprise as the Limavady man played a pivotal role in Dundalk winning the title. However, Higgins admitted the travelling and the depth of squad made his decision to join Coleraine.

“There was a few different reasons as to why the move happened,” he explained.

“As soon as I got married I moved to Dundalk and the travelling was starting to take its toll on me and my family.

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“I thought there was also one or two too many midfielders at the club. Therefore, I felt that my game time would have been limited and I want to play regularly.”

The former Derry City star revealed that Coleraine was the only club he was interested in signing for and hopes his experience can be useful for the younger members of the squad.

“I know Oran and Colin McKendry extremely well and I am also friendly with a lot of the players here,” he revealed.

“I didn’t even contemplate joining any other Irish League club when I knew I was leaving Dundalk.”

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There’s no doubt Higgins’ experience will prove vital especially with Coleraine’s younger players.

And the midfielder is more than happy to help them out in any way he can.

“I’m here to play football first and foremost, but if I can help the younger lads along the way then that would be brilliant,” said the Limavady man.

“You try and set a good example for the younger players to follow.”