Ciaron Harkin relishing praise but more eager for Derry City comeback after injury absence

As a populace, we're probably not the most comfortable at taking compliments.

So how would Ciaron Harkin respond to listening to impassioned words from his Derry City manager Ruaidhri Higgins uttered to the Derry Journal recently?

"He's a real credit to himself. He won’t really know this but he has a huge influence around the place. He’s very highly regarded by the staff, players and everyone at the club. He’s a joy to be around, as he always comes in with a smile on his face every day."

High praise indeed. At the Aviva Stadium this week, the Derry midfielder listened to that praise from his manager, not betraying much of a smile but clearly appreciative of the esteem he is held in at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

Because it has been a tough season for the 26-year-old who has been sidelined since suffering an ACL rupture to his knee - the first major injury of his career and the "worst one" he could have got - during the second game of the SSE Airtricity League season back in early spring.

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Yet he has remained integral behind the scenes as the Candystripes push for glory on two fronts. Hence the lavish praise from his manager, even if the player would rather be contributing on the field than seeing his name up in lights in the paper.

"When I read that I obviously was buzzing with it but as I said, I do like being involved," Harkin told RTÉ Sport as EA Sports announced the return of the SSE Airtricity League Club Packs in FIFA 23.

"Obviously, I can't help on the pitch but I am trying