Glenavon 'mutually agree to part ways' with summer signing while midfielder undergoes surgery
Glenavon have confirmed they’ve “mutually agreed to part ways” with striker Francely Lomboto.
Lomboto joined the Lurgan Blues during the summer transfer window from League of Ireland outfit Sligo Rovers and scored one Premiership goal in 12 appearances during a short stint at Mourneview Park.
The 25-year-old missed three matches through suspension earlier in the campaign following a controversial red card in an August defeat to Coleraine and his final outing came as a late substitute in last weekend’s 4-1 defeat to Crusaders.
Former Galway United forward Lomboto was signed by previous manager Paddy McLaughlin with Glenavon paying an undisclosed fee for his services.
“Francely Lomboto and Glenavon FC have mutually agreed to part ways,” the club confirmed on social media. “Both parties reached this decision amicably. We wish Francely well in his future endeavours.”
Glenavon currently sit 10 points adrift at the bottom of the Premiership table ahead of Friday’s trip to high-flying Larne, who are looking to close the gap on leaders Coleraine ahead of their showdown with Cliftonville on Saturday afternoon.
In an update on the club’s website, Glenavon confirmed Sean Carlin has underwent surgery to resolve a hernia complaint which will keep him out until January.
Kris Lowe is also set to spend six to eight weeks on the sidelines with a calf injury while Luke McGerrigan and Stephen Mallon have also had setbacks with the duo set to miss at least four weeks.
On a more positive note, goalkeeper Jacob Carney is ahead of schedule as he recovers from hand surgery.
Paul McGovern will return for Friday’s clash with Larne after missing last weekend’s defeat to Crusaders due to international duty with Northern Ireland’s U19s.
The 17-year-old, who has scored three league goals for Glenavon so far this term, featured in European Championship qualifiers against Malta, Azerbaijan and Czech Republic.
“It is a boost to have Paul back,” said manager O’Connor. “He has had a good week with the international side and should be ready to pick things up where he left off against Glentoran. He will be a big player for us over the next six months.”