Duncan Ferguson Poised to Become Glentoran Manager
Glentoran are set to hand the manager’s job to former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson, with the 54-year-old poised to take charge at the BetMcLean Oval after a wide-ranging search for Declan Devine’s successor.
Ferguson set for Glentoran role
Ferguson has been without a club since leaving Inverness Caledonian Thistle in October 2024, ending a 13-month spell in the Highlands. He is now expected to return to management in East Belfast and lead Glentoran’s push to end a long wait for major honours.
Devine left the post in September, prompting Glentoran to assess a sizeable field of candidates. The club did not formally advertise the vacancy, but interest intensified quickly once news of the opening emerged.
- Ferguson is 54 and previously played as a forward for Everton.
- His last managerial position was at Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
- Glentoran initially examined candidates including Jim Magilton and Ian Baraclough.
- Former Rangers attacker Peter Lovenkrands was among the notable names to express interest.
Interest floods in despite no advert
Owner Ali Pour said Glentoran were overwhelmed by approaches from managers, representatives and former players, despite never placing a public advertisement for the position.
Pour said the club received a rapid stream of CVs, with a number of applicants carrying strong coaching credentials. He added that several had backgrounds in England’s Premier League, Scotland’s Premiership and Denmark’s top flight.
The owner believes the level of interest reflects Glentoran’s standing, with candidates from outside Northern Ireland showing a genuine willingness to work in the Irish League.
Immediate title test awaits
Ferguson would inherit a side that has remained unbeaten under interim pairing Paddy McCourt and Tim McCann. His central task will be to turn that stability into a sustained title challenge.
Glentoran have not won the league since 2009 and were denied silverware on the final day of last season. They currently sit 14 points behind leaders Coleraine, leaving Ferguson little time to impose the high-energy approach associated with his coaching.
What happens next
Once the appointment is completed, Ferguson’s first priority will be to build on the interim team’s unbeaten run while cutting the gap at the top. Glentoran will expect their incoming manager to make the Oval side credible contenders again rather than merely chase the leading pack.
