Glentoran sporting director outlines 'clear vision' and Ali Pour's backing
Glentoran sporting director Paul Millar insists the East Belfast club has a "clear vision" which is fully backed by owner Ali Pour.
Despite a rocky start to the season, the Glens have recovered to go on a 10-game unbeaten streak which has seen them reach two cup finals and climb to third in the Irish Premiership.
Next up it's Tuesday night's County Antrim Shield final against holders Larne, and a chance for manager Declan Devine to get his hands on some welcome silverware.
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They go into that game boosted by goalkeeper Daniel Gyollai's commitment to the club. The Hungarian shot-stopper has signed an 18-month contract extension which will see him remain at the Oval until 2026.
Former manager Millar - who helped bring Gyollai to Glentoran - has described the deal as a "massive boost for everyone at the club".
He also says the players have "bought into" Devine's vision and has predicted a bright future for the club.
Millar said: “Completing this deal is a massive boost for everyone at the club. We’ve been working on it for a while and I’m thrilled that Dan sees his future here at Glentoran.
“It’s no secret other clubs were interested in him, but his decision to stay speaks volumes about the direction we’re heading in under Declan Devine’s outstanding management and Ali Pour’s continued support.
“Declan has a clear vision for the type of player he wants - individuals who play for the badge, give everything on the pitch, and are fully committed to achieving success for the club.
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“The players we’ve brought in and retained reflect that mindset and underline our determination to keep building a squad capable of challenging for silverware and competing for league titles.”
Meanwhile, Devine has also hailed the commitment of goalkeeper Gyollai, who has been a pivotal force behind Glentoran's progress this season.
He also believes the new contract highlights the "direction we're heading as a club".
Devine said: “It’s fantastic to have Dan commit his future to Glentoran. He’s been simply outstanding since joining us and is one of the best goalkeepers in the league. His shot-stopping ability, leadership and presence make him a key figure both on and off the pitch and he’s exactly the type of player we want at this club.
“Dan is a huge fan favourite and a leader in the dressing room, so securing his future will give everyone at the club a real lift. With so much football still to play, putting any speculation around Big Dan’s future to bed is a massive positive.
“His new contract further highlights the direction we’re heading as a club. It’s a clear statement of intent about the calibre of player we want to build this squad around as we strive to challenge for silverware and secure European qualification.
“I’d like to thank Ali Pour and Paul Millar for their work behind the scenes to make this deal happen as we continue to work together to take this club to the next level.”
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