Irish League transfer link-up with brother offers 'fresh start' after switch between Premiership rivals
Shane McEleney is relishing “a fresh start” provided by a switch between Irish League rivals Glentoran and Ballymena United that also offers an opportunity to play alongside his brother, Patrick.
The 34-year-old defender made 26 appearances for the Glens and views this latest move a chance to draw on experience and “use that to help younger players”.
McEleney – who counts hometown club Derry City on his CV alongside St Pat's, Ottawa Fury, Larne and Finn Harps – could make his club debut this weekend against Portadown in the Sports Direct Premiership.
“I'm delighted to get this over the line and have a fresh start,” said McEleney on the Ballymena United club website. “I had a conversation with Oran (Kearney, manager) and Liam (Wilson, vice-chairman) and obviously Patrick too.
"They were excited to get me in and I was excited to join.
"I just want to be playing football matches and helping the team.
"I'm an experienced player and I want to use that to help the younger players.
"It's a young, enthusiastic squad with a few senior pros and I can add to that and, hopefully, help kick us on.
"There's a lot to play for and I'm looking forward to getting started."
A Glentoran statement confirmed “defender Shane McEleney has left the club following the mutual termination of his contract, enabling him to complete a move to Ballymena United”.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Glentoran and I’d like to thank the manager, the staff, my team-mates and the supporters for the support I’ve received since I arrived,” said McEleney on the official Glentoran website. “This move to Ballymena United feels like the right step for me at this stage of my career and I’m excited for the challenge ahead, especially the opportunity to play alongside my brother again.
"I want to thank everyone at Glentoran and I wish the club every success for the future.”
Declan Devine, the Glentoran first-team manager, described McEleney as “a top professional during his time with us and I want to thank him for his contribution, both on and off the pitch...it’s been a real pleasure to work with him again and we wish him all the very best for the future”.