Crusaders prepare for 2026-27 season amid significant player departures
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 9:54 PM
Last updated Aug 2, 2026
Crusaders are gearing up for the 2026-27 season after narrowly avoiding relegation, having finished 11th last year. Key player exits include striker Fraser Bryden, who transferred to Chesterfield, and club captain Jarlath O'Rourke. With several retirements, including Jonny Tuffey and Jordan Owens, manager Declan Caddell is focusing on youth to rebuild the team. The squad aims to start strong with first matches against Cliftonville and Ballymena United on the horizon.
- •Crusaders finished 11th in the previous season.
- •Fraser Bryden scored 23 goals last season before his transfer.
- •Manager Declan Caddell emphasizes finding young talent.
- •Crusaders' first five fixtures include games against Cliftonville and Glentoran.
- •New signings include Thomas Maguire and Aaron Reid.
- 9:54 PMYahoo Sports — Crusaders 26-27 preview: Crues aim to bounce back after turbulent year
"BBC Sport NI assesses Crusaders' prospects for the 2026-27 season.
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