2025
John Devine made his Glentoran debut on Boxing Day 1987 and for the next twelve years was the cornerstone of the club’s defence. Commanding in the air, strong in the tackle and an exceptional reader of the game, he brought authority and composure to every performance.
By the end of his first season he had helped Glentoran secure the Double, scoring in the decisive match at Coleraine to seal the title. Over his career he won three league championships, four Irish Cups, two Gold Cups, a League Cup, an Ulster Cup, a Floodlit Cup and two County Antrim Shields.
His performances earned individual honours, including Ulster Player of the Year and Football Writers Player of the Year, and he represented Northern Ireland at Under 21, Under 23 and senior level.
Devine’s leadership qualities made him a natural organiser and a figure respected by all who played with or against him. Reliable, composed and fiercely competitive, he epitomised the standards of his era and remains one of the finest defenders ever to represent Glentoran.
