Former Glentoran star Curtis Allen insists the current managerial vacancy represents “a massive opportunity” for an incoming boss – but feels The Oval outfit “would be best to take a bit of time” over the next appointment as they look to break their current cycle.

Glentoran’s search for a new boss is underway after Declan Devine’s departure on Monday as they look to keep their season on track.

Paddy McCourt and Tim McCann, who both served on Devine’s backroom staff, have assumed interim duties while the Glens begin their hunt.

Since winning their last Premiership title in 2009, Glentoran have had 10 different managers with Eddie Patterson and Mick McDermott the only two to have lasted more than three years.

placeholder image — Former Glentoran manager Declan Devine. (Photo by INPHO/Brian Little)

The Glens already have their work cut out to end a long Gibson Cup wait this term, currently sitting in eighth after winning just two of their first six matches.

Allen, who is a member of Glentoran’s Hall of Fame after scoring 110 goals in 236 appearances across all competitions, believes taking over at one of Northern Ireland’s biggest clubs still represents an attractive opportunity.

While games continue to come thick and fast – Glentoran travel to Cliftonville this weekend after hosting Coleraine on Tuesday night – Allen says the smart strategy would be to carefully weigh up options rather than rush into an appointment.

"It's a massive club, it's a massive opportunity,” said Allen. “Everything is in place – full-time set-up and they have a good squad there.

"All the fans want is success. I know that's not easy to get but the club is probably in a better position than they ever have been over the last five, 10 years to get success.

"I know lots of other clubs have improved and keep improving but it's a fantastic opportunity for somebody to come in and stamp their authority on it, put their own spin on it and do something special.

"This is a big club and there's trophies to be had, European football and all those things. It's not easy, it's a big, big task, but very exciting task for whoever gets it.

"I know it's easy to say it has to be the right person but you can't just keep recycling managers every two years. I think it would be best to take a bit of time.

"I know the matches are coming fast but take a bit of time and try and get the person that's right for it that's going to make a difference.

"If you rush in and it doesn't work out again, it's another manager and another manager.

"If we look over the last 10 years at how many different managers the club have had, that's not sustainable for any sort of success.

"It's going to be a big decision on who to give it to.”

Allen was co-commentating on Glentoran’s 1-1 Premiership draw against Bangor on Saturday – Devine’s final match – and admits he hasn’t been impressed with their performances so far this season.

"I thought he might have been given another week,” added Allen. “There's two massive games this week...if they win both, all of a sudden things start to change and you don't look as far behind as maybe what you did on Saturday at 5pm.

"They were poor on Saturday, there's no doubt about it. It's the second time I've watched them this season and it's disappointed me both times.

"Just a lack of real tactical awareness. They don't have a real game plan – if you look at Coleraine and Larne, you can see a clear game plan and everyone knows what they're doing, I just didn't see that at Glentoran.

"I'm sure Decky, he's well experienced, he's been a great manager and still is a great manager, he's worked on things and for whatever reason it hasn't worked out.”