Glentoran are set to make an approach for former Northern Ireland manager Ian Baraclough as their main target to succeed Declan Devine. The move comes after a poor start to the season that sees the club eighth in the Premiership with just seven points from seven games, a position that leaves them 12 points adrift of leaders Coleraine.
Declan Devine left his role on Monday after two-and-a-half years, with the club winning only two of their opening six league matches under his leadership. The two parties mutually agreed to part ways. Interim managers Paddy McCourt and Tim McCann, who were in the dugout for Tuesday's 1-2 home defeat to Coleraine, will take charge for this weekend's trip to face Cliftonville. The club's next fixture is a key away match against Cliftonville, a team they have struggled against in recent meetings.
Glentoran had initially identified Cliftonville boss Jim Magilton as their preferred choice, but he opted to stay at Solitude. The club has now turned its attention to Baraclough, who currently serves as Sporting Director at Scottish Championship side Partick Thistle. No formal offer has been made yet, and several other contenders are understood to be interested in the vacancy.
Baraclough has not held a managerial position since his spell as Northern Ireland boss ended in October 2022. During his 28-game tenure, which began in June 2020, his record was six wins, eight draws and 14 defeats. He is credited with giving international debuts to current stars like Conor Bradley, Trai Hume and Shea Charles, and he often looked to the Irish League for talent, handing a first call-up to Conor McMenamin in June 2022.
The need for a swift appointment is clear given Glentoran's league position and recent form. They have won just one of their last five matches, a run that includes a late 1-2 loss to Coleraine last Tuesday where Jay Jenkins scored a consolation. The club's full squad details and current standings are also available.
Read the full report at Belfast News Letter
