Paddy McCourt has ruled himself out of the running to become Glentoran's next permanent manager. The interim boss declared he has 'no interest in the job' and accepted full responsibility for the team's poor start to the Irish Premiership season.
McCourt was asked to stay on and assist Tim McCann following Declan Devine's departure on Monday. He oversaw Tuesday night's 2-1 home defeat to Coleraine at The Oval, a result that leaves Glentoran eighth in the table with just seven points from seven games. The club is now a full 12 points behind leaders Coleraine.
McCourt accepts responsibility
Speaking after the loss, McCourt was unequivocal about his future. "I've no interest in the job," he said. "I feel absolutely wholly responsible for where we are."
He explained his decision is tied to his close working relationship with the departed Devine. McCourt stated he does not see himself remaining at the club without the former manager, indicating his interim role is strictly a short-term arrangement to provide stability.
The team's recent form underlines the scale of the task. The loss to Coleraine followed a 1-1 draw with Bangor and a 2-1 defeat to Larne. Their only win in the last five league matches was a 2-0 victory over Ballymena United in late August. You can review the full run of results on our fixtures page.
With McCourt out of contention, the search for a new permanent manager begins in earnest. The club's next match is a tough away trip to face fifth-placed Crusaders on 19 December. Supporters can track the evolving league picture on our standings page as Glentoran look to climb from their current position of eighth.
