Matthew Tipton keeping his faith in promoted Portadown players over big-name signings

Having spent the weekend confirming a string of fresh deals for the players who managed to end the top-flight exile, Tipton will continue to show full faith in what he considers “the best squad in my time at Portadown”.

Although lacking the stellar reputations of some past players, Tipton’s belief in backing his current squad to shine on the Danske Bank Premiership stage despite limited experience is built on the progress of which promotion stands as only the next step within long-term development.

“I’ve had players with bigger reputations for sure since coming back as manager in early 2018 but, in truth, this is the best squad in my time at Portadown, certainly in terms of working together towards our goals,” said the former striker who dropped out of Premiership management with Warrenpoint Town to accept the challenge of rebuilding the four-time Irish League champions. “Of course the plan was to get the club back up as soon as possible but now I can reflect on the growth on and off the pitch and how we are in such a positive position compared to previous seasons.

“We have Ruairi Croskery in as one signing but any other additions will be about quality not quantity, it’s not going to be a case of letting loads of players leave and bringing loads in now we have been promoted.

“I believe the foundation of our success last season was built on character, togetherness across the group and a defensive base.

“Those aspects will not change despite facing tougher opposition next season and it would be stupid to just abandon the strengths of the past because these players may not be established in the Premiership.

“We have Paddy McNally, Stephen Teggart, Stephen Murray, Chris Crane, Adam McCallum, Chris Lavery and Conall McGrandles all announced on new terms in the past few days, with more to come plus Aaron Duke back from loan.

“We will need a bigger squad to handle the increased demands next season but it’s not about a major rebuild.

“These players have won the right to continue to build reputations on their own terms as a squad of character, hunger and unity.

“We’ve secured promotion back to the Premiership and I’m excited to see what this group can continue to achieve for Portadown.”

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