Q Radio Sport
Coleraine manager Oran Kearney has moved to strengthen his injury-hit squad by signing former Kilmarnock midfielder Martin Smith.
The Sunderland-born 22-year-old joins the league leaders on a short-term contract and international clearance is being processed.
After losing to Crusaders in the cup mid-week, Coleraine are back in north Belfast on Saturday to take on rejuvenated Cliftonville.
Winger Josh Carson returns from a three-match suspension.
Boss Kearney says it's a timely boost as they bid to stretch their 10-match unbeaten run in the Danske Bank Premiership.
VIDEO: Hear what our new signing had to say about joining the Bannsiders... 🔽 #SmithInStripes pic.twitter.com/zuWiIhlLKE
— Coleraine FC (@ColeraineFC) October 19, 2017
Goalkeeper Chris Johns is also welcoming reinforcements as the club sits five points clear at the top.
Gray: "We’ll be going out to get the win and our supporters are going to play a massive part in helping us get it."https://t.co/7wdnV2ueIx pic.twitter.com/3Tzo33oUV9
— Cliftonville FC (@cliftonvillefc) October 19, 2017
The weekend Premiership action kicks-off on Friday night with Ards hosting Warrenpoint Town (8pm).
The North Down side are in 10th place, just above Matthew Tipton's men on goal difference.
The Point manager says his team needs to follow up last Friday's win over Ballinamallard with another victory.
Mallards manager Gavin Dykes considered quitting following the defeat at Milltown, but has been urged to stay on by club officials.
He's hoping for a first victory in 11 matches when Carrick visit Ferney Park on Saturday.
Next match is this Saturday at home to Carrick Rangers. Thanks to match sponsor Mallard Home Bakes and ball sponsor, our own Burger Hut team pic.twitter.com/LUqjril2iT
— Ballinamallard Utd (@Ballinamallard) October 18, 2017
In the other Saturday games, second-placed Glenavon entertain Ballymena and Dungannon welcome Glentoran for a 5.30pm kick-off at Stangmore.
Swifts v @Glentoran at Stangmore Park with the ⏰NEW TIME⏰ of 5.30pm. Please come out and support us. #Swifts #DanskeBankPrem 👍🏼💙⚽️ pic.twitter.com/IY1SQO3GvM
— Dungannon Swifts (@DgnSwifts) October 19, 2017
The rest start at 3pm.
The final fixture of the long weekend is the big one on Monday night - champions Linfield against the team they pipped to the title, Crusaders.