Jonny Russell says bringing silverware to Glentoran after a tough start to the season would mean everything to him. It's a big couple of weeks coming up for the Oval outfit with the BetMcLean Cup semi-final against Crusaders coming up on Tuesday night before the Co Antrim Shield final against Larne next week.

The Glens are currently unbeaten in the knockout competitions so far this season and come into the Crues test without having tasted defeat in their last nine games in all competitions. It's 15 years since they last played in the then League Cup final, when they beat Coleraine on penalties during the 2009/10 campaign.

Academy graduate Russell, who made his first-team debut at just 17, sees Tuesday night’s last-four clash as another important step toward delivering silverware for the club he’s been part of since childhood.

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"We’re on a great run - nine games unbeaten - and the entire dressing room is buzzing," said Russell. "Everyone is working incredibly hard in training to earn a spot in the starting line-up. Declan’s message is clear: focus on the next match, prepare meticulously for every opponent, and never allow our standards to slip.

“Crusaders are a strong side with threats all over the pitch, and we know they’ll be right up for it. But if we bring the same intensity and work rate that have defined our recent performances, stay solid at the back, and take our chances in front of goal, I’m confident we can get the result we need.

“Having come through the Glentoran Academy, it would mean everything to me to help the club reach another final - and hopefully bring some silverware back to the BetMcLean Oval for these unbelievable fans who have backed us every step of the way.”

Russell has had to fight his own challenges this season as injury and illness and the form of Danny Amos have restricted his opportunities at left back.

But the versatile defender has seized his chance in recent games by stepping into an unfamiliar right-back role emphasising his willingness to play anywhere on the pitch to help the team achieve success.

“I’ll be honest: the first half of the season was tough," he said. "I had injuries and illness to deal with and Danny has been outstanding at left-back. But I’ve kept my head down and worked hard every day in training, so I’d be ready when my chance came.

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“I started last week’s quarter-final against Ballymena United at right-back, which isn’t my natural position, but I’m happy to fill in wherever Declan and the coaching staff need me. Under Declan, everyone’s fighting for their spot, and that competition drives us on - if we let our standards slip or pick up a knock, there are players ready to step in immediately.

“Look at how Kodi has slotted into the backline with a string of impressive performances, or how JJ has banged in goals when given the chance - that shows nobody can afford to relax. That’s exactly what it takes at a club like Glentoran, and I’m determined to do my bit to help bring success back to this club.”

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