The 36-year-old defender will join the ‘Gers following the expiration of his contract with Crusaders.
Billy Joe made 423 appearances for the Hatchetmen scoring 33 goals since joining the Crues in 2014. In the 11 years at the Club, he won three Premiership titles, three Irish Cups, two Co. Antrim Shields and a Charity Shield. He also won individual accolades picking up both the Ulster Footballer of the Year as well as the NIFWA Player of the Year for the 2015/16 season.
Prior to his hugely successful spell at Seaview, Burns spent 8 years at Linfield where he also won three Premiership titles and three Irish Cups.
On joining Carrick Rangers, Billy Joe commented,
“I'm excited for a fresh challenge, something new after a long period at Crusaders, I can't wait to get started. With all the investments around all the different teams, you know it's going to be a very difficult league, but there's no game you go out and try not to win, so that will be my mindset, to win games and hopefully the rest of the boys will be the same.
I’ve worked with Stephen for so long, he knows a lot about me, I know a lot about him, so that was quite simple. I've spoken with players who have been here before and work with Seanan Clucas as well. Everyone has had nice things to say, so it was quite an easy decision.”
Manager Stephen Baxter added,
“I am delighted to announce the arrival of Billy Joe Burns to Carrick Rangers.
Sought after by a host of clubs, Billy has chosen the Amber Army as his new home and I’m over the moon with that.
Billy is simply star quality. A tremendous talent who brings a wealth of experience and know-how to our new look Carrick Rangers team.
We wish him a warm welcome and look forward to seeing him in the Carrick Rangers shirt really soon.”
Welcome to Carrick Rangers, Billy Joe!
