Darren Murray joins Belfast Celtic as Stephen McAlorum spells out simple reality to high-profile signing

Stephen McAlorum says he has already outlined the simple reality facing marquee signing Darren Murray after the striker's move to Belfast Celtic.

The Ballymena and Provincial League side announced Murray's high-profile capture on Tuesday night.

The 30-year-old has already proved he can score goals at the top level following spells with clubs including Portadown and Glentoran, but Celtic boss McAlorum insists that reputation will count for nothing when he takes to the pitch next season.

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And despite Murray experiencing a nomadic career in recent times - he has played for nine clubs in the last six years - McAlorum believes he can get the best out of the striker.

"Darren is a good friend of mine, and has promised to come up and give me a hand for a long time now," McAlorum told Belfast Live.

"It has finally come to fruition, and it is a good signing for us.

"I want Darren to come in and bring that experience into the squad. We have a young team here and they can learn a lot off Darren.

"He was at the Welders last season and has been around a few clubs. He has a bit of a reputation but I hope the relationship I have with Darren can help bring the best out of him.

"He has settled down now and has a couple of young kids and stuff. Everyone wants to enjoy playing football, and getting Darren enjoying football and scoring goals is our aim."

McAlorum says he sat down with Murray to outline what he expects from the striker, starting with the basic staple of "hard work".

He added: "I had that conversation with Darren straight away. I told him we weren't here to mess about and we're here to do well for the club and support the players around us.

"And he's here to score