Newry City AFC are delighted to announce the signing of Albert Watson.

The vastly experienced centre-back joins the club from Championship side Armagh City, for whom he made 21 appearances in the current 2025/26 campaign.

Watson arrives at The Showgrounds with over 700 club appearances to his name in a hugely successful career, having won the Irish Premiership title at both Linfield and Larne. Beginning his career with Ballymena United, Albert then moved to Windsor Park, picking up the League and Irish Cup double in the 2011/2012 season.

A move to Canada saw him selected in the North American Soccer League Team of the Season twice while playing for FC Edmonton. After a short spell with Icelandic side KR, Albert returned to play for Ballymena before joining Larne, winning three successive County Antrim Shields as well as the Premiership title in 2023.

Current City boss Stuart King then brought Watson to Carrick before he moved to Armagh last Summer.

“Albert is a massive signing for us,” says King.

“He’s a born winner, has played at the highest level and his leadership qualities will inspire others. Albert will demand the best from everyone. He’s a friend and someone I have worked with in the Premiership and I have no doubt he’ll have a hugely positive impact for us.

“I’d like to place on record my thanks to Armagh City for facilitating this transfer, as well as to our board, and especially our sponsors, in helping get this over the line.”

Watson himself is looking forward to getting started at The Showgrounds and working under a Manager he knows very well.

“I’m delighted to sign for Newry City AFC,” he said.

“I want to enjoy my football and this gives me the best chance to have the biggest impact on a team. I know Stuart very well and have the utmost respect for him. He’s a winner and I want to be involved in that with Newry.”