Paddy McCourt insists it was a “privilege” to work for Glentoran, who he has labelled as “one of the biggest clubs on the island of Ireland”, after his exit alongside Tim McCann was made official by The Oval outfit.

McCourt arrived at the Glens in June 2024 as Declan Devine’s assistant manager with the pair leading the east Belfast club to consecutive third-placed Premiership finishes.

Last season, Glentoran amassed the most points (77) of any league campaign since they last lifted the Gibson Cup in 2009, finishing six adrift of champions Larne and three behind Coleraine, who defeated the Glens 6-2 on the final day.

The Glens were also beaten in extra-time across consecutive BetMcLean Cup finals, losing out to Cliftonville and ‘Big Two’ rivals Linfield.

placeholder image — Paddy McCourt has officially departed Glentoran. (Photo by Andrew McCarroll/Pacemaker Press)

Following Devine’s departure in mid-September, McCourt was placed in charge on an interim basis and rounded out his time at The Oval with a five-game unbeaten league run – the streak included four clean sheets.

With Duncan Ferguson appointed as the club’s new manager and Gary Bollan joining as assistant, former Northern Ireland international McCourt has departed his role, but reflected fondly on time spent at Glentoran.

“Glentoran is one of the biggest clubs on the island of Ireland and it has been a privilege to work here,” said McCourt on the club’s website. “I want to thank Ali (Pour, owner) and Paul (Millar, sporting director) for their support throughout my time at the Club, and Declan for bringing me here and for his trust and friendship.

"We put a great deal into our work together, and I’ve enjoyed working with so many players and staff along the way.

“When I was asked to take interim charge, I wanted to help the Club and give the players the best possible support. I appreciate their response and everything Tim and the staff did alongside me.

“To the supporters, thank you for your backing, home and away.

"Working here, you see how much Glentoran means to people and I know how much you want the Club to succeed. I wish Duncan, Gary and the players all the very best.”

McCann made 281 appearances for Glentoran as a player, celebrating Premiership and Irish Cup glory, before enjoying several stints as a coach.

“Glentoran has been a huge part of my life,” said McCann. “To have represented the Club as both a player and a coach has been a privilege.

“I’ve been fortunate to win trophies and share some wonderful occasions here. Those memories will always stay with me, as will the friendships I’ve made along the way.

“I want to thank Ali and Paul for their support and the opportunity to serve the Club again, and Declan, Paddy and all the players, staff and volunteers I’ve worked alongside.

“To the supporters, thank you for your backing over the years. I wish Duncan, Gary and the team every success. I’ll always want the best for Glentoran.”

Paul Millar, Glentoran’s sporting director, added: “I want to thank Paddy and Tim for everything they have given to Glentoran and for the professionalism they brought to their work.

“They were important members of Declan’s coaching staff and made a valuable contribution to raising standards across our football operation.

“I am particularly grateful to Paddy for leading the team following Declan’s departure. With Tim and the backroom staff alongside him, he guided the players through a strong run of league results.

“Tim’s association with Glentoran stretches back almost three decades. His contribution as both a player and a coach has earned him a lasting place in the Club’s history, and that service deserves recognition.

“I have enjoyed working with them both and have great respect for them. They leave with our sincere gratitude, and I wish them all the very best for the future.”