Duncan Ferguson has been appointed as the new manager of Belfast-based Glentoran Football Club, marking his return to football management. The former Everton striker, who made 273 appearances and scored 72 goals during two spells at Goodison Park, brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the NIFL Premiership side.

Ferguson’s managerial career includes previous roles at Forest Green Rovers and Inverness Caledonian Thistle, as well as two brief caretaker stints at Everton in December 2019 and January 2022. He takes charge of Glentoran following the departure of Declan Devine, with the club currently sitting third in the league.

Glentoran, one of the most decorated clubs in Northern Irish football with 23 league titles, last claimed the NIFL Premiership crown in 2009. The club aims to return to championship contention under Ferguson’s leadership.

In a statement, Ferguson acknowledged the significance of his new role, calling Glentoran “a big club with a tremendous history” and emphasizing the responsibility it carries. He expressed a clear ambition to compete for trophies, stating that success will be measured by silverware.

Ferguson has committed to a long-term tenure and plans to reside in Belfast. He highlighted the importance of integrating into both the club and the local community as part of his approach. His immediate focus will be to build a team capable of challenging for the league title and other competitions in the coming seasons.