EXIT DARR SWINGS OPEN AT COLERAINE

Coleraine v H&W Welders The Showgrounds, 3pm

IRISH Cup holders Coleraine yesterday placed Darren Mccauley on the transfer list after the winger turned down a new deal at the Showgrounds.

His hometown club Derry City plus a number of Irish League clubs including Crusaders and Larne, are expected to pursue the 27-year-old, who rejoined the Bannmen for a second spell in 2014.

A Coleraine statement said: “Despite a lucrative contract being offered to him, Darren has decided his footballing future lies elsewhere. Providing the interests of Coleraine football club are met, Darren will be permitted to leave the club in the January transfer window.”

Mccauley (left), who has scored eight goals from the left wing this season, has admitted he would consider a return to former club Derry.

“It’s something I would consider,” he said in a recent interview with BBC Radio Foyle. “It’s my hometown team and I obviously have an affinity with the club and city.”

Coleraine kick-off their Cup defence at home to the Welders, who lie fifth in the Championship.

Elsewhere, Premiership leaders Linfield will be big favourites against Ballyclare Comrades at Windsor Park.

David Jeffrey’s Ballymena United travel to Dundela and Glenavon host Rosemount Rec of the Amateur League.