Dungannon Swifts season preview
- Published
2024-25 League position: 4th
2024-25 Irish Cup winners
Manager: Rodney McAree
Opening fixtures: Linfield (A) - 10 August; Portadown (H) - 16 August; Coleraine (A) - 19 August; Carrick Rangers (H) - 23 August; Bangor (A) - 30 August
Dungannon Swifts are hoping to build on a memorable 2024-25 campaign that culminated in their first Irish Cup triumph.
That cup win opened the door to Europe for the Mid Ulster outfit, and while they secured a 1-0 away win against Vaduz, they were beaten in extra-time in the return leg.
With their Conference League adventure over, the Swifts begin the domestic season with a trip to champions Linfield on Sunday.
Boss Rodney McAree has, however, had to plan for the new season without a few key players. Irish Cup-winning captain Dean Curry has retired while frontman John McGovern joined League of Ireland side Shamrock Rovers.
McAree has strengthened his squad, though, bringing in defender Mal Smith following his departure from Crusaders while forward Darragh McBrien has returned for a second spell at Stangmore Park after being released by Linfield.
2025-26 signings so far: Mal Smith (Crusaders), Peter Maguire (Ballinamallard), Sean McAllister (unattached), Tiernan Kelly (Loughgall), Darragh McBrien (Linfield)
2025-26 departures so far: Dean Curry (retired), Oliver Crowe (Loughgall - loan), John McGovern (Shamrock Rovers), Grant Hutchinson (unattached), Padraig Lynch (Institute), Tommy Connolly (Ballinamallard United - loan), Aidan Hegarty (Institute - loan)