Ballymena United have announced the signing of Derry City captain Patrick McEleney, who will join the club in January.

The 32-year-old, who has won four Irish Premier Division titles in his career, is a former Sunderland youth player and also featured for Oldham Athletic in League One.

Having made over 300 appearances for Derry City across two spells, McEleney departure from the Brandywell comes just 24 hours after brother Shane also left to join Glentoran.

Ballymena manager Jim Ervin said the signing was an “incredible boost” for the club.

“His experience and winning mentality will be invaluable as we continue our exciting project,” Ervin said on Ballymena United’s X account.

“Signing a player of Patrick’s calibre is an incredible boost for the club. He is a top-class footballer, widely respected across the game.”