Article: published on 6 August 2024

Carrick Rangers will be keen to build on their best ever finish in the top flight last term as they finished 'top of the bottom six' come the end of the campaign.

The backing of American business executive Michael Smith, who acquired a majority shareholding in the club, has come as a boost to the east Antrim club's ambitions.

Manager Stuart King was quick to add experience to his ranks in the close season in the form of two former Glentoran players - experienced ex-Northern Ireland international defender Luke McCullough and midfielder Seanan Clucas, who also counts Linfield, Derry City and Dungannon Swifts among his former clubs. Ex-Crusaders winger Paul Heatley followed at the start of August.

Last season: 7th

Manager: Stuart King

Transfers In: Luke McCullough, Seanan Clucas, Paul Heatley

Transfers Out: Lewis MacKinnon.

Joel Taggart's take: Stuart King has strengthened after securing not only Carrick's best ever top flight finish last season but also their highest ever top flight points total and their highest top flight goals tally.

They’ll feel a top six finish is a realistic target despite the fact that the same six clubs have occupied those places for the last five seasons in a row but tempting Paul Heatley out of retirement might just make the difference.

Opening fixtures: 10/8 - Glenavon (h); 17/8 - Loughgall (a); 23/8 - Glentoran (h) - Live on BBC Sport NI; 27/8 - Larne (h)