Ballinamallard will be without John Currie for the remainder of the season after he moved to Germany to undertake a work placement as part of his University education. The diminutive midfielder was a regular starter for the past three seasons after he broke into Whitey’s team at the end of their first campaign in the Premier League, and he had already made a contribution this season as he scored the winner on the opening day to defeat Warrenpoint. The club and player were both committed to finding a solution that would allow him to remain at the club for the season, but they had to admit defeat in their efforts. “We couldn’t get him a work placement in Northern Ireland which we are disappointed about and so was John, so he is away to Germany and we wish him all the best,” said Whitey. “We tried very hard to get a replacement for him but it just didn’t come to fruition.” The club were however able to make one signing in the final week of the transfer window, as they turned Emmet Friars’ loan deal into a permanent transfer, with the central defender now committed to the club for the rest of the season. “We received information that we might be able to make it permanent and we were delighted to be able to sign him for the whole season,” said Whitey. “He has been a great addition so far. A great leader, a great winner and he has good experience. He is enthusiastic and he enjoys the club and we are enjoying working with him. We were delighted to get that across the line and he is a very important signing for us.”