Inver Reds face uphill title defence after Andy Ryan’s departure

While the floodlights glimmered at Inver Park, the Inver Reds celebrated a dramatic final‑day triumph, only to wake to the stark news that striker Andy Ryan has left the club, returning to Scotland and leaving the title‑defending side without its top scorer.

The Inver Reds clinched the Irish Premiership on the final matchday, a campaign the club described as overcoming numerous obstacles to finish in style. That late‑season surge secured their first league crown in recent memory.

Striker Andy Ryan departed Larne to return to Scotland after recording 70 goals in 121 appearances. His exit removes the team’s leading scorer from the squad.

Neighbouring clubs have reinforced their attacking options while eyeing the Gibson Cup, adding extra pressure on Larne’s title defence. The strengthened rivals make the upcoming season more challenging for the Inver Reds.

Manager Gary Haveron cautions that defending the trophy will not be easy and stresses an ambition to capture the Irish Cup, a competition the club has yet to win despite its league success. He emphasizes the need for consistency and depth.

Larne have bolstered the squad with forward Josh Ukek, midfielder Sam McClelland, striker Montel Gibson and defender Kevin O’Hara, completing an incoming quartet aimed at offsetting Ryan’s loss. The new arrivals are expected to provide the attacking firepower and defensive stability required for the campaign.

The first match of the 2026‑27 Irish Premiership is a home game against Bangor, followed by an away clash with Coleraine. Subsequent fixtures include a home fixture versus Limavady United, a trip to Ballymena United and a return to Inver Park for a showdown with Glentoran.