Derry City last night made their first signing of the close season as manager Kevin Mahon added Joe Harkin to the squad he hopes will challenge for major honours next season in the Premier Division. There was no transfer fee involved as Harkin, who played a significant role in Waterford's late-season escape from relegation, was out of contract.

Harkin (23), who has signed a two-year contract, spent three seasons with Manchester City as an apprentice before returning to the Irish League for short spells with Glenavon and Coleraine. Since then he has played with Cobh Ramblers and Waterford United.