Central defender Gary Smyth on his way to the Showgrounds

The big central defender will be available for Ballymena's Intertoto Cup first round, first leg qualifier against Danish side Odense on Sunday.

Showgrounds' boss Kenny Shiels was one of a number of managers chasing the big defender who was sensationally released by the Oval last month.

''Kenny proved too much for me and after talks, I finally threw my lot in with him,'' said Smyth.

''A few clubs had been in touch but had decided not to rush into anything.

''I did have preliminary talks with Ards, but Kenny was persistent and I had a chat with him Sunday week ago.''