Ballymena United boss David Jeffrey says a new contract is fitting reward for Ross Redman after the experienced defender proved his critics wrong last season.
Redman’s arrival last summer was met with lukewarm enthusiasm by some supporters, but 12 months later he is reflecting on one of his best ever campaigns in the Irish League.
The 31-year-old former Glentoran and Portadown left-back scored three goals, contributed 21 assists and picked up a raft of personal awards from Ballymena supporters' clubs.
He was also named in the Uhlsport Premiership Team of the Year alongside the likes of Player of the Year Shayne Lavery and Linfield captain Jamie Mulgrew.
“When we sat down to discuss a new contract with Ross, it took all of two minutes to agree and I’m delighted he is staying at Ballymena United,” said Jeffrey.
“When Ross came to us last year for pre-season training and eventually signed for the club, there were possibly quite a few people who thought his best days were over.
“He had been at Portadown and then went to Glentoran and things maybe didn’t work out for him there, but he is a tremendous footballer and individual.
“The salient point for me when he first came to Ballymena was the fact he told me he had ‘unfinished business’ in the Irish League and that was a big motivation for him.
“He felt he had something to prove - probably more to himself than anyone else - and he certainly delivered on that promise last season.
“When you consider the awards he received from our own supporters’ groups and also the fact he was in the Premiership team of the year, he had a tremendous season.
“I think we were all vindicated - not that we needed vindication - and Ross has proved himself in abundance.”
Meanwhile, Jeffrey has confirmed that the versatile Owen McKeown is also staying at Ballymena United next season.
The mobile 24-year-old, who can play on the wing but also impressed in a number of outings at right wing back, joined United from Crumlin United last summer.
“Owen had some challenges with injuries in his first season with us," said Jeffrey. "But in a number of games, particularly away to Larne and Linfield, he showed real potential.
"We want to encourage that potential and I’m delighted he will be with us for next year.”
