Northern Irish football live on Sky Sports: New deal kicks off with Cliftonville v Glentoran

Sky Sports will show a selection of Northern Irish Football League matches over the next six years as part of a new deal.

The agreement, which covers the current campaign and runs a further five seasons until the end of the 2021/22 term, will see five Danske Bank Premiership fixtures, as well as the Northern Irish League Cup final broadcast live on Sky Sports.

A double-header kicks off on Friday, February 17 as Cliftonville host Glentoran (kick-off 7.45pm) and the Sky Sports cameras make the short trip across north Belfast the next day for the League Cup final between Ballymena United and Carrick Rangers (kick-off 5.30pm).

Live Danske Bank Premiership

Two live games will follow in March, with another two scheduled for April.

Andrew Johnston, managing director of the Northern Irish Football League, is excited about the new long-term agreement.

"This is fantastic news for fans of Irish League football and I am delighted that the Danske Bank Premiership and the NI League Cup final will be back on Sky Sports," said Johnston.

Live Northern Ireland League Cup Final

"The coverage that Sky provide is a fantastic platform to promote our league, our clubs and our players to a wider audience of football fans across the UK and around the world. I would like to place on record our appreciation of the assistance provided by the Irish FA and UEFA in developing this agreement.

"Since the formation of the NIFL we have worked hard with our clubs, sponsors and media partners to develop and enhance the competitive structure and excitement of the League and I believe that Sky Sports customers will enjoy the passion, honesty and commitment of our clubs.

"Having averaged over three goals per game to date this season I believe viewers will not be left disappointed."