Declan Devine seals first signing as 'someone I’ve always admired' joins Glentoran

The 29-year-old midfielder has spent the majority of his career in the League of Ireland across spells with UCD, Derry City and Dundalk before earning a move to Cheltenham Town in 2024.

Sloggett has also enjoyed time at Hartlepool United and Boston United, making 39 National League appearances last season.

He has now signed a long-term contract at The Oval and could make his competitive debut in next week’s UEFA Conference League first round qualifier against RFS.

“I’m delighted to be joining Glentoran,” he told the club’s website. “After speaking with Declan and Paul (Millar), it became clear where the club is heading and what they’re trying to achieve.

“There was a real clarity about the ambition to keep moving the club forward, compete for trophies and build on the progress that’s already been made. That was something I wanted to be part of.

“I really enjoyed my time in England and it was an important part of my career, but the opportunity to come back home and join a club of Glentoran’s stature was one I couldn’t ignore.

"It’s a football club with a huge history, passionate supporters and the expectation of competing for honours every season.

“The chance to play in Europe again was another big attraction. Those are the matches every player wants to be involved in and I was fortunate enough to experience some special nights with Dundalk.

“I also spoke with Pat Hoban before making my decision.

"We spent four years together at Dundalk and he couldn’t speak highly enough about the club, the people around it and the direction everything is heading in. Hearing that from someone I know and trust reinforced my own feelings.

“I feel I’m arriving here at a good stage of my career.

"Hopefully I can bring my experience to the group, make a positive contribution and help this football club compete for the success its supporters expect.”

Devine believes Sloggett has the ability to make an immediate impact at Glentoran as they look to compete for major honours.

“Greg is a player I’ve come up against a number of times over the years and someone I’ve always admired,” he said. “Whenever we faced him, you knew exactly what he would bring.

"He has a real influence on games, he’s intelligent in the way he plays and he gives his team control in the middle of the pitch.

“We wanted to add another experienced midfielder to the squad and Greg was someone we felt would complement the players we already have.

"He’s excellent both on and off the ball, reads the game exceptionally well and has the discipline to protect the back four and break up play.

"At the same time, he’s comfortable receiving possession, can play through the lines and has the ability to contribute further up the pitch when the opportunity presents itself.

“Having a player with those qualities gives the team real balance and allows our more attacking players the freedom to go and influence games, knowing there’s someone behind them who understands the role and does it exceptionally well.

“His experience speaks for itself.

"He’s played at a high level in the League of Ireland, competed regularly in Europe and gained valuable experience in England over the last couple of seasons. Those experiences will be a real asset to our dressing room.

“What also stood out throughout our conversations was how keen Greg was to join Glentoran.

"He understands the expectations that come with representing this football club and was excited by the opportunity to be part of what we’re doing here.

“We’re delighted to welcome him to The BetMcLean Oval. He strengthens us in a key area of the pitch and I’m looking forward to working with him.”