Declan Devine insists 'nothing to report' ahead of transfer window - but 'there could be a couple of comings and goings' at Glentoran
Glentoran manager Declan Devine insists “there’s nothing to report” relating to activity ahead of the January transfer window opening next week – but does anticipate there could be some movement in either direction at The Oval.
The Glens are coming off consecutive Premiership wins over Coleraine and ‘Big Two’ rivals Linfield and are looking to carry momentum into 2026 as they round out their year with a home clash against Portadown on Tuesday.
Devine’s men currently sit third, 11 points behind leaders Larne and five adrift of second-placed Coleraine, but have played three fewer matches than the Bannsiders.
Glentoran took advantage of the opportunity to strengthen their squad last January by completing deals for Nathaniel Ferris, Joe Thomson, Ciaran Coll, Shane McEleney and Christie Pattisson.
With the East Belfast outfit battling for position in the Premiership alongside progressing to the BetMcLean Cup semi-finals and preparing to begin their Irish Cup campaign away to Strabane Athletic next month, the transfer window comes at a perfect time for Devine.
While a number of clubs have made moves to conduct early business, including Coleraine, Devine insists nothing is imminent.
"There could be a couple of comings and goings, that's the nature of transfer windows,” he said on BBC Sportsound. “As we sit here today (Boxing Day), there's nothing to report."
It was January recruit Thomson who scored a spectacular winner in their Boxing Day victory over Linfield.
The former Larne midfielder has established himself in Glentoran’s midfield once again after struggling with injury at the start of this season and Devine knows what he’s capable of.
"It's an incredible strike from Joe,” he added. “He has been a wee bit stop-start with his niggles and injuries, but we brought him here knowing the impact he can have on the team...what a strike.
"I'm so pleased for Joe because he makes a huge sacrifice and he's a top player.
"I got a call (on Christmas Day) from Jordan Stewart saying he was struggling with a niggle...the first thing (Boxing Day morning) he rings to say 'don't worry about what I said yesterday, I'm alright and I'm playing'.
"His performance epitomised the team, he was technically superb and worked himself into the ground. I'm really fortunate to have so many good players here."
Glentoran became the first team to stop Linfield scoring at home this season with Friday’s shut-out and also ended the Blues’ 41-year unbeaten record at Windsor Park on December 26.
The emergence of 19-year-old MJ Kamson-Kamara, who is on loan from Lincoln City, has bolstered Glentoran’s defence with the Englishman starting in each of their last five matches across all competitions.
While delighted with two wins over full-time rivals, Devine is determined to keep building against Portadown.
"I thought James Singleton was outstanding,” said Devine. “Matthew Fitzpatrick is a real handful up front, he's hard to deal with, and Marcus Kane and MJ Kamson-Kamara at 19 years of age marshalled that back-four really well.
"It's three points and we dust ourselves down because Portadown come on Tuesday and we know it'll be another battle for us. The last two wins, Coleraine and Linfield, it's pleasing."