Duncan Ferguson has spent his first 25 days as Glentoran manager learning the Irish League but will next face a 'very special' first

​The former Premier League caretaker manager who built a reputation as a cult hero across his playing career with Rangers, Newcastle United and Everton will, at last, get to guide his Glens on home turf and feel the internal love following sustained outside scrutiny.

Away draws at the home of at-the-time league leaders Coleraine then battle-hardened Carrick Rangers have shaped Ferguson’s early impressions plus, significantly, given the travelling faithful a first-hand insight into what the 54-year-old can bring to life in the Irish League.

Ferguson – the 11th attempt by club officials at a title answer to the major question mark hanging over the Oval since Alan McDonald last guided the Belfast giants to Gibson Cup glory in 2009 – now gets a first opportunity to call on some home help.

“As a manager, you always look forward to the first game at home in front of your new fans and I can’t wait until Friday night,” said Ferguson. “I was really disappointed when the game against Ballymena United was called off on that first Saturday after I was appointed (due to Storm Boelo).

“I just wanted to experience walking out in front of our passionate fans and showing them what we are all about.

“I have to say, even though my first two games have been away from home, the fans have been magnificent...I was told just how passionate our fans were when I joined and they have shown that so much already.

“Friday night is going to be very special with the fans packing the place out...I know the supporters will be loud and proud and there is no better time for us to go on and pick up the three points.

“We want to make it a night to remember for all the right reasons and make sure that we are taking another big step towards where we want to be.

“It has been a long wait, but it will have been worth it to finally get in front of our own fans.”

Tonight may mark Ferguson’s first time offering instructions from the Oval dug-out in a competitive environment but his arrival on October 19 has provided plenty of time to settle into club surroundings and work with the squad.

“When you come into a new club, you obviously want to try and get your ideas and philosophy across to the players as quickly as possible, but you also want to run your eye over the players and get to know them too,” said Ferguson. “I’ve been in the role about three weeks or so now and it’s been good so far.

"We have tried to get our thoughts across to the players and, to be fair, they have been very responsive.

“They are a good bunch of lads and a talented squad...you can see they want to do well for Glentoran and bring success.

“Whether you’re playing in the Premier League or here, you have to be consistently picking up points.

"This club has such a rich history, but success has to be earned."