Steven Ball ‘delighted’ to follow Barry Gray from Warrenpoint Town to Newry City

Steven Ball is Barry Gray's first signing as Newry City manager

Newry City boss Barry Gray has begun his rebuilding work at the Showgrounds with the arrival of Steven Ball from his old club Warrenpoint Town.

The 26-year-old, who can play at left-back and in midfield, made 119 appearances for Warrenpoint, scoring 16 goals.

“I’m delighted to have joined Newry City and to be back playing Premiership football,” said Ball.

“It speaks for itself that I have followed the manager here. We have both worked very well together over the last few seasons and I look forward to continuing that progression in a Newry jersey.

“I know the position the team is currently in, but I believe I can play my part in helping the club retain Premiership status.

“I can’t wait to get into training and playing as soon as possible.”

City boss Gray added: “I’m delighted to have Steven join me at Newry.

“I’ve worked with Steven at Premiership, Championship, and Premier Intermediate League level. He’s a player that has developed so quickly and has been a proven talent for me at Warrenpoint.

“Steven will help me establish the style of football we want to play and is only too familiar with what is expected of him as he comes back into Premiership football.”

Ball is cup-tied for Newry City’s Irish Cup fifth round tie at home to Ballinamallard United on Saturday.

Ali Omar and Sean Brown have, meanwhile, returned to Larne after spending the first half of the season on loan at Bangor, while Caolan Donnelly has joined Ballyclare Comrades on loan for the remainder of the season.

Teenage right back Brown has signed a one-year contract extension at Inver Park, taking him until the end of the 2024/25 season.

“Sean has enjoyed a strong first half of the season with