Andy Waterworth joins Linfield from Irish Cup winners Glentoran

Linfield have signed Andrew Waterworth from Glentoran on a two-year deal.

The 27-year-old striker, who scored two goals in Glentoran's Irish Cup final success over Cliftonville on Saturday, was out of contract at the end of the season.

Linfield was always his preferred destination and the Blues have lured him away from their bitter rivals.

"I'm absolutely delighted, (he) will provide us with an extra dimension in attack," said manager David Jeffrey.

"He is a quality player who has demonstrated his ability consistently throughout the season," Jeffrey told the Linfield website.

Waterworth's arrival at Windsor Park represents the second new acquisition by the deposed Premiership champions, following the signing of defender Mark Haughey from Glenavon.

The former Hamilton and Lisburn Distillery forward scored 25 goals for Glentoran this season and was also believed to be attracting attention from a number of League of Ireland clubs.

The east Belfast club said it was not prepared to enter into a 'bidding war' with Linfield to keep hold of the player.

In a statement on the club website Glentoran said: "despite offering Andy Waterworth an improved three-year contract, he has opted to let his current deal lapse in order to sign for another club which was both prepared to meet his salary expectations and guarantee his position as their first choice forward".

"Whilst naturally disappointed to lose Andy after his most productive season at the club, the Board of Directors is not willing to engage in a bidding war that would endanger our ability to work within a sustainable budget.

"We wish to place on record our thanks to Andy for his service to the club, including his contribution to the team's success in last Saturday's Irish Cup Final."