Ivan Sproule signs for Linfield

Ivan Sproule in action for Ross County against former club Hibernian. Picture: Ian Rutherford

The speedy winger has agreed a deal keeping him at Windsor Park until the end of the 2014/15 season.

Sproule, 32, asked Ross County to terminate his contract last month, citing personal reasons. A spokesman for the Staggies confirmed the winger’s departure, adding: “Ross County Football Club have mutually agreed to terminate the contract of Ivan Sproule with immediate effect due to personal and family reasons and his desire to return to Northern Ireland.”

Sporule is unable to play for the Blues until the January transfer window opens, and is also understood to have held talks with League of Ireland clubs Derry City and Sligo Rovers.

Brought to Hibs by Tony Mowbray from Derry side Institute in January 2005, Sproule struggled to settle in Scottish football, but entered club folklore by netting a hat-trick in a 3-0 win against Rangers at Ibrox after coming on as a substitute. In two years at Easter Road, he scored 12 goals in 71 appearances.

He signed for Bristol City in 2007 but returned north to Hibs in 2011 after falling out of favour at Ashton Gate.

After a second spell at Hibernian he joined Ross County in January 2013, scoring twice on his debut in a 4-1 win against St Mirren.

SEE ALSO

• Ivan Sproule leaves Ross County

• Sproule fired up for County debut after lack of action at Hibs

• Interview: Ivan Sproule, Hibernian FC player