Saints boss is reunited with his ex-pupil

St Mirren boss Oran Kearney has been reunited with his former Coleraine pupil Brad Lyons after agreeing a six-month loan deal with Blackburn.

Kearney gave the midfielder his firstteam breakthrough while in charge of the Bannsiders, and Lyons went on to make almost 100 appearances for the Northern Irish outfit.

His performances won him the chance to move to Ewood Park on loan earlier this season, which became permanent last month as he signed an 18-month deal.

But he will now continue his transition to full-time football with a stint in Paisley after agreeing to join the Buddies’ relegation fight.

Lyons – who could make his Saints debut against William Hill Scottish Cup opponents Alloa Athletic this weekend – said: “It’s absolutely brilliant and I can’t wait to get started at such a great club.

“There was always rumours because the manager was at Coleraine. I was buzzing that the club was interested in me because it’s such a great one in a high league.

“I know the way the manager works and he knows the way I play so that relationship was always going to stand us in good stead.”

Lyons becomes Kearney’s fourth new signing this month and the Buddies boss said: “I’m really pleased to have Brad in.

“I know the fans will love him and I know what I will get from him in training and on a match day. It’s everything we need for the battle we are in.

“He’s a central midfielder who will bring a huge amount of good attributes to us but – more than anything – a hunger and a desire to be here.”