Winger Zane Okoro has officially returned to Lincoln City following the completion of his loan in Ireland.
Zane, heavily linked with a move to Premier League Bournemouth last season, has been playing in the NIFL for Coleraine, as they launched a title challenge. Larne were the eventual winners, but Zane tussled with another Imp, MJ Kamara, as he appeared for Glentoran.
That tussle turned physical in one of the final matches of the season, with MJ giving a penalty away for dragging Zane down. Coleraine went on to win that match and, in doing so, secured a place in the Conference League first qualifying round at Glentoran’s expense.
However, Zane then did his Imps teammate a favour, as Coleraine beat Linfield 3-2 in the Irish Cup. That meant they qualified for the second qualifying round of the Conference League, with the next European plce defaulting to the team finishing third in the NIFL – Glentoran.
While they are likely to be thanking Coleraine for their cup win, The Bannsiders are thanking Zane for his input in their season following his return to City.
“The club also thanks Zane Okoro who makes a return to parent club Lincoln City,” said a short statement.
“The winger made a bright impression during his season-long loan at The Showgrounds as he racked up 40 appearances – including starting in the Irish Cup final success against Dungannon Swifts.
“We naturally wish Zane the best of luck for the future.”
Zane started well in Ireland, with three goals before the end of October, but they began to dry up as the season went on. He made 40 outings in total, starting 24 NIFL matches. He added just one more goal, against Linfield in April, and will now be looking to kick on, perhaps with a domestic loan in 2026/27.
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