Glentoran boss Alan Kernaghan excited by marquee signing of former Rangers star Nacho Novo

The Glens have confirmed the capture of the former Rangers striker on a one-year deal.

Novo joins the club following a spell Carolina Railhawks in the North American Soccer League.

During his six years at Ibrox the 37-year-old made 253 appearances for the Light Blues, scoring 72 goals.

“Nacho played at Rangers while I was a coach there. I’ve seen him play on many occasions and I have always admired his work ethic and professionalism both on and off the pitch,” Glens boss Kernaghan said.

“We need experience and leadership in the changing room and off the pitch and I’m confident Nacho’s obvious enjoyment of being part of the team unit will be crucial in helping us push forward this season and to secure the progress we all want to see.

“Throughout his career Nacho has always proven to be a player who has thrived on the big occasion and on the expectations associated with playing for a big club. He has consistently excelled and scored goals in high profile games and high pressure situations. That is essential at a club like Glentoran.

“In addition to what he brings on the pitch as a player I also believe that Nacho – along with our other more experienced signings this window – will give our younger players the guidance, and encouragement they need and that he will lead by example. He will be based in Northern Ireland and will train with his team-mates three nights each week.

“This and our other signings demonstrate are a clear sign of intent from this club as we seek all work together to re-establish Glentoran at the upper end of the Premiership and compete successfully in the cup competitions.”

While at Rangers Novo won three Championships, the Scottish Cup and three League Cup winner’s medals.

In 2014 he received the highest possible personal accolade at Ibrox when Rangers supporters voted him into the Rangers Hall of Fame.

Apart from his standout years at Rangers, Novo has also played in La Liga in his native Spain for Sporting Gijon and Huesca, for Legia Warsaw in Poland, Dundee and Raith Rovers in Scotland, and Carlisle United.

“I would like to thank the Chairman and Directors of Glentoran for giving me this opportunity to play for such a famous club with a long and proud history in East Belfast and beyond,” Novo said.