Ballymena United announce players departing, with others returning to their parent clubs

BALLYMENA United can confirm the departure of several players at the end of the 2024/25 season.

Sam Johnston, Caleb Crawford, Fiontan O'Boyle and Shane Flynn will all leave the club with the expiry of their contracts this summer, - while Duncan Idehen, Conor Barr and Ethan Devine will return to their parent clubs.

Speaking on the club’s website manager Jim Ervin thanked the players for their service.

On Sam Johnston, he said, "We want to wish Sam all the best for the future and highlight the respect we have for what he has given us on and off the pitch in his time here."

Shane Flynn joined the club in January, but wasn't helped by an early injury.

"Shane got frustrated by an injury almost straight away and it set him back, which was a tough one to take, but his attitude was exceptional and we wish him well going forward."

Fiontan O'Boyle and Caleb Crawford both spent last season out on loan.

"Both Fiontan and Caleb joined at a time when things were different in terms of what we are working with now. They represented themselves and the club extremely well both with us and out on loan and we wish both lads well with whatever their futures hold."

With regards to Duncan Idehen, Conor Barr and Ethan Devine, all three return to their parent clubs of Derry City and Linfield.

"We thank Duncan for the time and effort he put in when he was here and we'd also like to thank Derry City for the working relationship which has seen a number of players go back and forth,” said manager Ervin.

As for Conor, he continued, "Conor's contribution was fantastic, he played extremely well. He has a bright future ahead and his NI U21's call up goes to show how well he did with us."

On Ethan , he added "Ethan is a really good person and he scored some really vital goals for us, so we thank him for his efforts and also Linfield for facilitating the move.”

Everyone at Ballymena United wishes those who have moved on the very best in their next steps.