Jonathan McMurray has returned to Ballymena United as new Sky Blues boss Jim Ervin continues his summer rebuilding plans at The Showgrounds.

The 28-year-old makes the switch after spending the last six months with Warrenpoint Town and, prior to that, a season-and-a-half with Crusaders and a couple of campaigns with Larne.

McMurray initially joined United in January 2017 and enjoyed a successful spell there which brought 36 goals, European football and a League Cup success.

Ervin also confirmed a new deal at The Showgrounds for Mikey Place.

Lisburn Distillery dipped their toes in the transfer market for the first time since the end of the season with the arrival of three new faces at Ballyskeagh.

Boss Barry Johnston has acquired the services of Gledis Cakaj (Portadown), Bailey Hoy (Carrick Rangers on loan) and Arynn Annett (Albert Foundry) in a busy few days that also saw contract renewals for Ethan Carry, Rhys Clougherty, Robert Robinson, Jonathan Angus, Carter Savage, Adam McCart, Joshua Lynch, Johnny Newell, Lewis Higginson, Michael Gallagher, Jourdan Shearer and Cieran Clougherty.

Also agreeing new terms at their clubs were Ryan Arthur (Bangor), Stephen Lowry (Coleraine), Philip Lowry (Crusaders) in addition to Jamie Browne, Matthew Buchanan, Dean Corrigan and Blaine Burns (all Dergview).

Meanwhile, Limavady United boss Paul Owens added to his squad by bringing Matthew Walker to the club. Previously with Portadown and Institute, Owens said: "I’m delighted to get Matty on board for the coming season. Matty is a big physical defender who is comfortable at centre back or left back. He brings great quality and balance to our defensive options for the coming season.

"Matty excelled at Institute in the championship last season before getting a move to Portadown in January. We look forward to him wearing the blue and white this season."