McClelland, a Northern Ireland youth international who has also played for Scotland’s youth teams, joins Dean Shiels’ squad with a growing reputation after an impressive loan spell at Queen of the South last season. He made 31 appearances in Scottish League One and was named the club’s Player of the Year.
The 22-year-old from Glasgow, a product of Rangers’ Academy, joined Hibs in 2022 and debuted in the Premiership as a substitute against Livingston that August. He was loaned to Cove Rangers in 2022/23 but experienced relegation before moving to Queen of the South, where he became a fan favorite.
Now, McClelland has signed with Dean Shiels’ Coleraine for the upcoming season, becoming the second new addition under Shiels after ex-Ipswich Town player Cameron Stewart. Coleraine is transitioning to a full-time setup following a takeover by Bannsiders Holdings earlier this year. McClelland sees this move as a significant step in his career and is eager to contribute to Coleraine’s ambitions.
“This is a big step in my career,” McClelland said. “I believe this move will make me a better person and provide valuable experience. After a good conversation with the gaffer about the club’s goals and expectations, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”
Shiels, who replaced Oran Kearney as Coleraine’s manager after Kearney became Director of Football, praised McClelland as a mature talent. “We are very pleased to welcome Kyle to the club. For his age, he performs well above his years. He’s very comfortable in and out of possession. His coaches at Rangers and Hibernian speak highly of him. I want to thank David Gray at Hibs for facilitating this loan. I believe Kyle will thrive with his quality,” Shiels said.
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