TOMMY Wright has made his first signing of the January transfer window in bringing transfer-listed Glentoran striker, Michael Ward to the Braid.

The Omagh born striker signed a two-year contract at the weekend and his transfer fee from the Glens was paid for by fans' initative Sky Blue Direct.

Michael had been transfer listed by Alan McDonald at the Oval last week - along with former Ballymena United forward, Rory Hamill.

However, the Sky Blues fought off the interest of a host of other Irish League clubs to secure the services of the 23-year-old striker.

He began his career as a trainee at Leeds United before returning to play for his hometown team, Omagh Town before moving to Newry City.

Joe McAree took him to Dungannon Swifts in the summer of 2005 where he enjoyed a fruitful spell in front of goal at Stangmore Park.

He took a short period of time away from football last year before signing for Glentoran in January 2006, before finding his way to Ballymena.

Ward was only an onlooker in yesterday's Irish Cup clash with Newry City, as he his registration didn't go through in time - however he will be available for selection for Tuesday night's replay.

Manager Tommy Wright was pleased to have Ward on board.

"He's a natural striker. I tried to get him 12 months ago, but Paul Millar beat me to it when he was manager of Glentoran.

"He will be an excellent addition to our squad now that we have lost Paul Brown to Limavady United.

"I would like to thank Sky Blue Direct for helping make the move possible."

Meanwhile, 18-year-old winger David Cushley has signed a new two-year extension to his Ballymena contract.