Ethan Schilte-Brown comes on board as Glentoran’s fifth summer signing with “all the attributes we were looking” for manager Declan Devine.

The Canada-born defender arrives in the Irish League on a season-long loan from Kilmarnock, subject to the necessary clearance.

The 6ft 3in centre-back is a product of the Orlando City youth system in America’s MLS and has previous loan spells from Kilmarnock on the books at Cumnock Juniors, Albion Rovers and Dumbarton.

The youth international clocked up 18 appearances last season for Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership and finished with the club’s ‘Young Player of the Year’ award.

placeholder image — Glentoran have signed Ethan Schilte-Brown. (Photo by Glentoran FC)

More minutes arrived in the current campaign and the 21-year-old views a switch to Glentoran as “a big opportunity for me and one which I am relishing...I am determined to make the most of my time here”.

“Strengthening the heart of our defence was one of our priorities this summer and we did a great bit of business bringing in Zeno Rossi earlier in the window,” said Glentoran manager Declan Devine. “The addition of Ethan not only gives us greater depth in that area but adds real quality as well.

"He has all the attributes we were looking for...he’s strong, athletic and composed on the ball and has made a number of first-team appearances for Kilmarnock while also gaining valuable experience out on loan.

“Ethan has a real physical presence and enjoys the defensive side of the game...I believe he has all the attributes to be a real success in the Irish League.

“We have strong competition throughout the squad, but it’s important that we continue to add quality in key areas.

"Ethan gives us exactly that and I believe he can become a very important player for us over the coming months.”

Schilte-Brown joins Rossi, Greg Sloggett, Rhys Walsh and Lekan Sule as summer arrivals.

“It’s a massive football club with a fantastic history,” said Schilte-Brown. “After speaking with Declan (Devine, manager), Paddy (McCourt, assistant manager) and Paul (Millar, sporting director) I knew straight away that it was the right move for me.

“Those conversations made it clear just how ambitious everyone at the club is and how much they want to achieve.

"As a player, that’s exactly the kind of environment you want to be part of.

“You want to be competing at the top end of the table, challenging for trophies and playing in big games and that was a major attraction for me.

“I understand what this football club means to its supporters and the expectations that come with wearing the shirt...I can’t wait to get started, play in front of the fans at The Oval and, hopefully, create some great memories together this season.”

Millar added: “There were certain areas of the squad we targeted to strengthen this summer, with the centre of our defence being one of them. As always, though, it wasn’t just about signing anyone. It was about bringing in the right player for this football club.”