Article: published on 6 August 2024

Linfield will again begin the season with their focus set on regaining the Irish League title which has eluded them in both of the last two seasons, the Blues having to give second best to Larne in the two most recent campaigns.

With that target in mind, manager David Healy has signed Scottish attacking midfielder Cammy Ballantyne from St Johnstone and defender Scot Whiteside from Ballymena United, while 17-year-old Charlie Chapman has signed his first professional contract with the club.

Another defender, Sam Roscoe, returns to the club for a second spell while Euan East's availability after injury will have the feel of a new signing after his lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Transfers In: Cammy Ballantyne, Charlie Chapman, Sam Roscoe, Scot Whiteside.

Transfers Out: Aodhan Doherty, Braiden Graham, Daniel Finlayson, Jordan Stewart, Matthew Clarke, Michael Newberry.

Joel Taggart's take: Linfield conceded almost twice as many league goals as Larne last season so it's no surprise to see them bringing Roscoe back.

Joel Cooper was the only Linfield player to hit double figures for league goals last season (11) so that also has to change. David Healy will also hope that Robbie McDaid and Stephen Fallon can stay injury free and make a difference this campaign.

Opening fixtures: 10/8 - Ballymena United (a); 17/8 - Dungannon Swifts (h); 20/8 - Glenavon (a) - Live on BBC Sport NI; 24/8 - Loughgall (h)