LOCAL lad Gary Harkins has been announced as Morton's latest new signing.

The Greenock-born playmaker, 32, has joined the club on a one-year deal.

The ex-Partick Thistle, Dundee, and Kilmarnock man completed the move after securing his release from former club Ayr United.

Ton boss Jim Duffy says Harkins is a player he has 'always admired'.

He added: "He’s been at Dundee, Kilmarnock, down south and played at a high level with top players.

“Last year with Ayr United, I still felt that he had that wee bit of class about him. In terms of ability, I don’t think anybody can deny he’s got real quality about him.

“He’s very, very comfortable on the ball; he’s strong; he can play in a number of positions: anywhere from midfield to anywhere across the frontline, and that’s important because we won’t be carrying a huge squad.

“Gary is a player who is blessed with natural ability, and if we can get the right balance in the team, I think he can be a very important player for us next year – a player who can add a different dimension to our game."

Duffy also believes that the new arrival will give his squad a bit of added know-how which could prove crucial in the campaign.

He said: “We’re a young team – we haven’t had too many experienced players over the last couple of years.

“I don’t think it does any harm now and again to add one or two with just a little bit more experience, and experience of the Championship. I’m confident Gary will be a good fit for us and a very good signing for us.”