Glentoran are seeking a new manager early in the Irish Premiership season. This follows Declan Devine leaving his role after a tenure of over two years at the club.
Devine led the team to victory in the County Antrim Shield last season but was unable to secure a first league title in many years. He departs with the side positioned in the lower half of the table, following a recent home loss to Coleraine.
Candidates in the frame
An internal option is Tim McCann, a former Glentoran player who rejoined as a coach recently. McCann has been critical of the team's displays, stating after one match that the level was completely unacceptable and that the players must be responsible.
External candidates are also being weighed. Tiernan Lynch is considered a leading contender due to his success winning league championships with Larne. He also has prior experience at Glentoran, having worked there as an assistant manager.
Another former Glentoran manager, Rodney McAree, is also being mentioned. McAree achieved European qualification for the club before leaving after a short period for another role, where he later won a major domestic cup.
Other individuals linked to the job include Gary Hamilton, a former goalscorer for the club now managing elsewhere, and Mick McDermott, who previously won the Irish Cup with Glentoran and now coaches internationally.
The immediate challenge
The incoming manager will take over a team with an equal number of goals scored and conceded this campaign, resulting in an even goal difference and a significant points gap to the league leaders. A poor record from recent matches highlights the urgency for improvement.
The first test comes quickly with an away match against Cliftonville, who are managed by Jim Magilton, a coach who recently defeated Glentoran in a cup final. The squad available will be key for preparation ahead of this challenging fixture.
